ihxM^ Off ^angtc^^. 



^^^f -.,zn.Lff\ 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 



TESTIMONIAL 



We the subscribers, for tbe benefit of strangers, most 
cheerfully testify to the worthiness of this intention of the 
author to relieve himself from pecuniary indebtedness, to 
which he is continually subjected as an invalid; and we 
would assure the benevolent and charitable, that any aid he 
may receive from the sale of this volume, or otherwise, will 
afford immediate relief to one who has experienced long 
years of unusual and constant suffering in darkness. 



(Signed,) CHAELES BUKROUGHS, Portsmouth, N. H. 
A. P. PEABODY, " " 

WILLIAM LAMSON, 
HENRY D. MOORE, 
J. W. BONHAM, 
MOSES GRANT, 
T. STARR KING, 
ALVAH HOVEY, 



Portland, Me. 

Lowell, Mass. 

Boston, Mass. 
u u 

Newton Centre, Mass. 



FRAGRANT FLOWERS 



AND 



OTHER POEMS. 



B Y ^»' 

v 

DANIEL Av DROWN. 

si 
PORTSMOUTH, N. H. 



"Dark, dark is my pathway, if bright the sun shine, 
And the pale moon ride in her chariot above, 
Yet the flowers, the birds with their music are mine, 

And mine is the converse of friends that I love. 
Why then should I weep, when they speak unto me 
Of the beauty and grandeur I never may see? 

" That 1 never may see ! O, no ! I have hope 

In Owe who will yet turn my steps to the light ; 
Not always in darkness my spirit shall grope, 

For the glory of heaven shall burst on my sight, 
When that morning shall dawn, oh ! then shall 1 see 
The beauty, the brightness, now hidden from me." 



BOSTON: 
WALKER, WISE, AND COMPANY 

245 WASHINGTON STREET. 

POETSMOUTH: 
JAMES F. SHORES, Jr. and JOSEPH H. FOSTER. 

1860. 



^p1 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the j-ear 1859, by 

WALKEE, WISE, AND COMPANY, 

in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts. 



University Press, Cambridge : 
Printed by TTelch, Bigelovr, and Company. 



DEDICATION. 



Though these Flowers have silently bloomed in the val- 
ley of sorrow, encompassed with the shadows of a painful 
adversity, and therefore may not exhale fragrance like those 
which are gathered along the sunny paths of health and- 
prosperity, yet 

THE AUTHOR 

would humbly venture to present this little offering 

TO THOSE THOUGHTFUL FRIENDS, 

who have so generously extended to him their Christian 
sympathies and their disinterested benevolence, as a willing 
token of his grateful appreciation of all their kindnesses. 



INTEODUCTOEY. 



The author of the following unpretending volume 
has a more than usual claim upon the pubUc, which ex- 
tends to its sympathy as well as to its taste. The 
poems composing the book have been produced from 
the depths of physical suffering, as deep as ever man 
has known. While shut from the light of day by 
worse than blindness, the muse has come to him in his 
darkness, and borne him out among the green and fair 
things of earth ; and through the transmuting power of 
his poetic fancy, the beautiful has become installed 
where to one less gifted all would have been barren 
despair. At the moment when the world was bright- 
est to him, and hope most buoyant, in anticipation of 
usefulness for which his education had fitted him, a 
painful disease of his optic nerves seized him, and 
blotted out his hopes forever. He has for nearly fif- 
teen years sought relief in vain; but his heart has 
never hardened with the burden that fell upon it, nor 
his mind lost its elasticity though his eyes were sealed 



Vlll INTRODUCTORY. 

as avenues to its nutriment. Like a bird in a dungeon 
he has sung his songs, and their echoes have reached 
the outer world, and the sympathetic have paused by the 
way to listen to them, touched by their strange melody. 
This long and drear confinement has involved ex- 
penses that he is ill able to bear, that his singing and 
his faith and his great patience have not been able to 
lift him over, and this volume it is hoped will prove, 
through the kindness of friends, a help in need that 
shall relieve him from the embarrassments of present 
necessity, and keep the wolf from the door in the years 
to ensue, before he shall sink to what will prove to 
him a welcome rest. 

B. P. SHILLABER. 
Boston^ December, 1859. 



CONTENTS. 



The Warrior's Bride 13 

Fragrant Flowers 21 

A Tripling Gift .22 

Mat Morning 24 

Morning Jot 25 

The Willows 26 

Angel Voices . . .28 

A Morning Walk 30 

To A Friend 32 

October 33 

A Ministering Spirit 35 

On a Dew-Drop 36 

The Breath op June 37 

Moonlight Evenings . 38 

The Springing Grass 40 

o, speak to me kindlt ! 41 

Faded Leaves 43 

The Brief Answer 45 

On a Lilt 46 

We are going Home . 48 

Happt Moments 49 

The Spirit's Whisper . . . . . . 51 

Nature's Pages . .52 

An Angel's Visit . 54 

The Rose et the Watside 55 



X CONTENTS. 

Bubbling Echoes 56 

Mary 58 

Autumn Leaves 60 

Bring Flowers 61 

Jesus, mt Hope 63 

Falling Snow 65 

The Better Land 66 

Come to the "Woods 69 

The Morning Shower 70 

"I PITT TOU" 72 

The last Good-by 73 

To A Friend 75 

Summer Winds . . . ♦ 77 

To Susie 78 

On the Death of an aged Pilgrim ... 79 

My first Eose-Bud 82 

Lines • . . . . 84 

"As Rain upon the mown Grass" .... 84 

That friendly Good-Night 85 

The Muse's Response 87 

That Gentle Voice 88 

On the Death of Mrs. E G .... 90 

The Rose-Bud's Lament 92 

A Farewell to Gertrude 95 

The Old Elm 97 

The Home of Angels 99 

Sunshine and Shadow 100 

The Heavenly Country 102 

Future Glory 105 

" We would see Jesus " 107 

The Secret Wish 110 

Lines to Julia 113 

Sympathy 116 

Blind Orleena's Soliloquy 117 

The Shining Light 121 

The Death of the Righteous 123 

My Home is in Heaven 125 

Stanzas 127 

On a White Rose 129 

t 



CONTENTS. XI 

To Isabel 131 

Contentment, or the Blest Jewel . . . 134 

Peace, be still ! 136 

On the Death of Mrs. J. U. L 137 

One Kind "Word . . 140 

On a Sleeping Child . . . . . . 141 

To Garophelia 142 

Another Year 143 

KocKT Glen . 145 

"Let there be Light" 146 

Sleep 148 

On the Death of Mrs. Jennie B. L . . 149 

Autumn . 153 

To Geraldine 155 

Lines 156 

Lines to a Friend ....... 158 

No Rest for us here . . . . . . .160 

Yes, then I'll think of You 162 

On the Death of M J — '— F . . .164 

The Little Favorite 166 

A Silent Token 169 

Thoughts on the Departed 170 

On Friendship 171 

The Saint's Desire 174 

Lines 175 

"Thy Word, O God, is pure" . . . . 177 

Farewell to Lavinia 178 

A Fragment 180 

To Annette on her Birthday 181 

Then let me hear op Heaven . . . . 182 
Lines on my new Dressing-Gown . . . .183 

Snow-Flakes 186 

No, never give up 187 

The Twin Spirits . . . . . . . 188 

Autumn Winds 190 

Impromptu 192 

To Alice 194 

"I WISH I WERE A Bird" 196 

The Morning cometh 198 



xu 



CONTENTS. 



The SuMiiEK Eain 

Co^fsoLixG Pkomise 

Paetijtg with Cheistian Feiends 

CoxFiDExcE IN God 

Affeictioxs 

HtM2« 

A Speixg MOE>"'iyG 
Lines foe a Feiexd's Albutu: 
To A Feiend .... 

Cheistiax Pilgeim's Expectation 
Be Steadfast .... 
The Voice op the Shepheed 
"I wile come again" 

To Octatia 

The Soul's Anchoe . 
The Land of the Blest 

"Violets 

The Advent Bell .... 

To LOEALEA 

Still hope foe the Best 

i am weaet of stating 

I LONG TO GO Home 

Let me eest .... 



200 
202 
204 
205 
207 
208 
209 
211 
212 
213 
214 
215 
216 
218 
220 
222 
224 
226 
228 
229 
230 
233 
235 



POEMS. 



THE WAREIOR'S BKIDE. 

On the river's green bank, near tlie edge of the wood, 

The low wigwam of Meenar in solitude stood ; 

The green boughs of the hemlock waved gently above, 

Like an angel of peace o'er the nest of a dove. 

Here in silent repose modest violets grew, 

On whose fair tiny forms early glistened the dew. 

The faint type of that purity, goodness, and love. 

Which so freely distils from the fountain above, — 

And the carols of birds at the morn's early gleam, 

With sweet silvery tones from the pure crystal stream. 

Their glad echoes united in joyful acclaim, 

As they breathed forth their praise to the Great Spirit's name. 

The sweet-smelling spruce and the balsam grew nigh. 

E'er distilling their gifts, with a murmuring sigh, 

As the wind whispered through them as mildly it past, 

Or as sunshine peeped through, and its bright glances cast 

On her face, as she sat, undisturbed, by the door. 

And repeated the song of her happiness o'er. 

As her small graceful fingers the green willows wrought 

Into fanciful forms, which her own skill had taught. 

Thus contented and happy, one warm summer day, 
When nature around was all blooming and gay, 
2 



14 THE WAEKIOR'S BRIDE. 

She sat on lier pallet of deei'skin alone, 

Thiiikino- onl^' of Mm •wlio that morninor had gone 

O'er the hill in the distance, with arrows and spear, 

To hunt for the bison, or swift-footed deer. 

She remembered with pleasure his last parting word, 

Which had reached her warm heart and true sympathy stirred, 

As he stood by her side, and looked lovingly down 

To her dark sparkling eyes, which saw never a frown 

Overshadow the brow of her own chosen brave. 

Who his last breath would give her dear life to save. 

Thus the day wore away, as with feelings serene 

She there quietly mused on the beautiful scene, 

TMiich had dawned on her life in her own native home, 

Where as queen of the forest she freely might roam. 

When the shadows of evening grew speedily on. 

For his coming she watched, with the game he had won, 

And with long earnest gaze looked far o'er the plain. 

In the hope of beholding her time love again, 

As the dark forest shade he should first leave behind, 

And employ as his servant the fragrant west wind, 

To announce his return to his beautilul bride. 

Who he knew would be wishing her brave by her side. 

But night its dark curtain soon drew o'er the sky, 

And the glistening stars peeped like gems from on high, — 

The murmuring stream and the whippoorwill's note 

In such mournful low cadences seemed now to float 

On the cool evening air, through the tall waving trees, 

That the tidings of evil were borne by the breeze. 

Still he came not, — no other sounds fell on her ear, 

Save these two plaintive tones, which awoke every fear, 

And with slow measured pace pausing oft by the way, 

To discern if some light could be seen far away, 

Where encamped he might resting in safety remain, 

Till the morn should enlighten his pathway again, 

She eagerly listened the first sound to hear, 

Which might prove that his footsteps were then drawing near. 



THE warrior's BRIDE. 15 

Still another bright morning peeped over the hills, 
And the sunshine danced lightly o'er sweet flowing rills, 
Yet no sign of his camp on the mountain was seen, 
And no blue curling smoke in the valleys between, — 
Not a sound in the distant green woodland was heard, 
Save the sighing of winds which the long branches stirred. 
And the rushing of waters now truthfully seemed 
The responses of sorrow of which she had dreamed. 
Disheartened she turned to her now dreary home, 
Where all sleepless she sighed that he longer should roam, 
And her favorite lays lost their power to cheer, 
For her feelings forebode that some danger was near. 

When the shadows of evening were gathering fast. 

And the moon its pale light on her wigwam had cast, — 

Which had bridged the clear stream with its silvery light. 

On which fairies might cross in the stillness of night, — 

A faint sound in the distance caught Meenar's quick ear ; 

And she listened with eagerness plainer to hear. 

But deep silence seemed quickly on all things to rest. 

Like an infant asleep on its fond mother's breast, 

When a footstep much nearer distinctly was heard, 

In the dark shadows round, which all quiet disturbed, — 

For no signal came floating upon the still air, 

To announce that brave Worba, the chieftain, was there ; 

And before she could turn from the danger away, 

A stern voice by her side had compelled her to stay. 

Then a band of fierce warriors gathered around, 

And her dehcate wrists with strong ligaments bound, 

While they mocked at her grief, — whose sad tears were the jest 

Of her merciless foes, who would give her no rest. 

Alas, now, for Meenar, the beautiful bride, 
Who had thought to herself no dread ill could betide. 
While she feared but for Worba, her true noble brave. 
Who, perhaps, in the forest had found his lone grave, 



16 THE TTARRIOR'S BRIDE. 

Overcome, Tinsuspecting, bv numerous foes, 

As he lay in Ms camp taking quiet repose ; 

For she knew that awake he could ne'er have been slain, 

So mighty his arm, so unerring his aim ; 

Her anxieties, pleasures, and hopes, e'er so dear, 

All centred in him who had never known fear. 

She had thought but of him, in the pride of her heart, 

T\'Tiose glad presence could always make sadness depart, 

Bringing sunshine each day to be her fond guest, 

AYhen he lovingly smiled, or her soft cheek carest. 

How sincerely she wished that he now could be near. 

To deliver her quickly by strong arm or spear ! 

But her wishes were vain, yet she silently prayed 

That the day of her death might be longer delayed, 

Till she heard of the fate of the huntsman so bold. 

But one half of whose prowess had ever been told. 

Through the deep forest shade then they hm-ried her on 

Hasting quickly away with the prize they had won, 

Lest, discovered, they might be despoiled of their prey, 

"N^Tien the night with its shadows had vanished away. 

Down the mountain's steep side, they unheedingly fled, 

"Where the footsteps of men were known never to tread ; 

Through most intricate paths they pressed huniedly on. 

Pausing not till the darkness of night had quite gone, 

And sweet voices proclaimed the first dawning of day ; 

For they dared not to make but a moment's delay, 

Till they reached a retreat in the deptlis of a wood. 

Where, deserted, their camp in its lonehness stood. 

Here their scant}' repast of dried venison and corn 

They hastily ate at the first break of dawn ; 

But more scanty was Meenar's, all weary and sore. 

"Who now strove their compassion in vain to implore. 

But they could not, nay, would not her plaintive words hear, 

Though they often beheld the sad falling tear, — 

Though she held up her hands which were swollen with pain, 



THE warrior's BRIDE. 17 

And directed their gaze to her feet yet again, 

Yet they heeded no sign which she made for relief, 

But rejoiced In her bondage, and smiled at her grief. 

To the land of the Shawnees they still made their way, 

Where their loved hunting-grounds In the great valley lay ; 

Where, all weary with journeying day after day, 

At the lodge of their chief they now ventured to stay, 

And delivered their captive, so beauteous and fair. 

That no maid of the Shawnees with her could compare. 

Though disconsolate, weeping and sad she remained 

At the feet of the brave, who her service had gained. 

Through the long weary day no kind word could she hear, 

Which might serve to dispel her most terrible fear, — 

No smile could she see as the token of peace. 

And their dark angry frowns gave no signs of release. 

Thus she felt that some evil was certainly nigh, 

To escape which she knew It was useless to fly. 

And she sat In deep silence, repressing her tears, 

Which unbidden would start, as she mused on her fears. 

When three days had elapsed Worba reached the wide plain, 

Proudly bearing the game which his strong arm had slain, 

Rejoicing to come to the home of his pride, 

To which his best feelings were dearly allied. 

When he first left the woodland he raised his voice high, 

As a token to Meenar that he was then nigh ; 

But he saw not the form he used gladly to see, 

Walking gracefully 'neath the familiar old tree, 

His return there awaiting with many a smile. 

As some favorite lay she low chanted the while ; 

Nor the waving of feathers by Meenar's own hand. 

As a signal to welcome him home to his band. 

As still nearer and nearer his wigwam he came, 

No sweet song met his ear, and no joyful acclaim. 

But the stillness of death seemed to reign all around, 

Nor was heard In the silence one murmuring sound. 



18 THE warrior's BRIDE. 

As he entered Ms dwelling, lie proved his worst fear, 

For his idol had gone, whom he thought was so near, — 

All his furs and his arrows, his bows and his spears, 

All his wampum and feathers, the treasure of years. 

All the relics, whose power and fame had spread wide. 

Which belonijed to himself and his beautiful bride ; 

And he felt that no honor for him now remained, 

Save the name which he bore, and the place he had gained. 

Then the dark thoughts of vengeance soon clouded his brow 

As in anger he uttered the death-seahng vow, 

In the presence of every warrior brave, 

That no rest would he take till deep hid in the grave 

His dark foe by his hand should ingloriously lay, 

And his deeds be unsung, and his name pass away. 

Then selecting an arrow and drawing his bow, 

With that skill which the bravest of huntsmen must know, 

Unerring it sped to a tree which stood near, 

Thus exciting in all strong emotions of fear, 

" Thus," he said, "shall my spear, in the breast of my foe. 

Drink his blood without pity, and lay his form low ; 

In thick gloom shall his sun go speedily down. 

And above his cold grave the dark cypress frown." 

Thus, in anger spoke Worba, with dark piercing eye, 
As so wildly he gazed on his lodge, which stood nigh, 
Where, contented and joyous, his heart's dearest pride, 
Like a dove in its nest, used in peace to abide ; 
Which, deserted and silent, now seemed by its gloom 
No more like his home, but much more like a tomb ; 
And he breathed forth the words of dread vengeance again, 
Inviting no rest till the lost he should gain. 

With a score of true braves, each with arrows and spear. 
Who had never betrayed either weakness or fear, 
He then roamed through the wood, to discover the way 
Which the enemy took when they fled with their prey ; 



THE WARRIOE'S BRIDE. 19 

But no sign of strange footsteps was anywhere seen, 

No leaves lately strewn on earth's carpet so green, 

And no marks of the tomahawk made in a tree. 

Nor the sign of a camp on the plain, could they see. 

When the search seemed at last to be fruitless and vain 

A spear-head was found, which was broken in twain ; 

Then new hopes filled his breast, and light beamed from his 

eyes, 
As he gazed on its color, its form, and its size. 
" I have it," he said, as he scanned it anew, 
" To the land of the Shawnees our foes we pursue. 
From the land o'er the mountain, now far in the west, 
Where the sun in its grandeur sinks slowly to rest. 
And from thence shall the captive be speedily brought, 
For thus have these omens propitiously taught." 
Then, emboldened by hope, they unwearied pressed on, 
Through thick tangled woodland, o'er wide-spreading lawn, 
Till they reached the great valley which forests surround, 
Where they hoped the fair lost one alive would be found ; 
And they lay in close ambush throughout the long day, 
Till the sun's cheerful beams had quite faded away. 
Then still nearer they drew, till a wigwam was seen. 
And the light of a fire the green leaflets between, 
Which its bright golden glances unceasingly flung 
To the moss-covered rock which its site overhunsj. 
Though they long watched for Meenar, yet she never ap- 
peared ; 
For she mourned in deep solitude what she most feared, 
In great sorrow recalling those bright joyous days 
When she saw Worba's smile, and oft chanted her lays. 
As he mentioned the victories won by his band. 
And his deeds of renown in an enemy's land ; 
Thus she still thought of him, though so hard was her lot, 
And the proofs of his love, which she had not forgot. 
Then how eager she wished that his arm might be near, 
To avenge her distress, and her bondage so drear. 



20 THE warrior's BRIDE. 

But slie knew not Ms fate, and she breathed forth the prayer, 
If alive, that his steps might be soon guided there ; 
But if he should rest, then she feared not to die. 
And with him in the valley most peaceful to lie, 
Boldly meeting her fate, which erelong might be sealed 
By the cruel death-song, as her di-eams had revealed. 

While thus musing in grief o'er the joys of the past, 

And deploring the shade o'er her destiny cast, 

In amazement she saw her fierce captors draw near. 

With wild gestures and shouts, which awoke every fear, 

And her heart died within, for her last hope had fled, 

And she mourned in deep anguish as one mourns for the dead, 

Unresisting they brought her, — escape was in vain, 

And they led her before their great chieftain again, 

Where the bright-blazing fagots, which enlightened the gloom, 

There revealed to her sight her most terrible doom. 

The death-note was sounding, — the chief raised his spear, — 

Then unerring and sure, from the dark ambush near, 

A sharp arrow, sent swiftly from Worba's strong bow. 

Piercing deep in his breast, laid the warrior low ; 

Then most quickly surrounding the treacherous band. 

By his well-chosen braves, who sprang forth at command, 

He avenged the foul capture of Meenar, his bride, 

By destroying threescore of the merciless tribe. 

Ere they knew of their danger they slept their last sleep, 

And the earth the sad offering refused not to keep. 

Then the captive, released when all hope seemed in vain, 

With loud shoutings of triumph was welcomed again ; 

And they brought her with joy to her own native home, 

AVhere the angel of peace might with blessing e'er come, 

Where the smiles of contentment and gladness might reign, 

Never more to be clouded with sorrow again. 



FRAGRANT FLOWERS. 21 



FRAGRANT FLOWERS. 

Lovely flowers, ever beauteous, 

I would prize tliy forms so fair, 
Breathing out delicious odors 

Freely to the morning air, 
With a thousand rainbows bending 

Round thy blushing petals bright, 
Sparkling like the liquid diamonds 

In the rosy morning's light. 

So may I, e'er looking upward 

To the star-lit throne above. 
Yield an oifering, like sweet incense. 

Of true praises warmed with love. 
May most gracious blessings ever 

On my heart like dews distil ; 
Then more grateful, pure, and holy, 

Be my choice my Father's will. 

Fragile flowers, with fringed eyelids, 

Catch the sunbeams from the skies, 
As bright favors which the morning 

Joys to send when evening dies ; 
Shooting out its golden arrows. 

As mid sunny clouds they play, 
Scattering with its rosy fingers 

Fragrant treasures in their way. 

So may I, most willing, ever 

Seize the truth, like sunbeams bright, 
Shininsf through the darkened curtain. 

Which hides heaven from my sight. 



22 A TRIFLING GIFT. 

May I drink delicious nectar 
Dripping from an angel's wing, 

With a heart prepared to welcome 
All the ofood his hands would bring. 

Flowers may stay and beauty linger 

But a litde season here, 
Where are seen the clouds of sorrow. 

And the sad desponding tear ; 
But beyond this world of trouble, 

Destined never for the tomb, 
Pleasures yielding blissful incense 

Shall for us forever bloom. 



A TEIFLING GIFT. 

A TKiFLixG gift, — one little rose, 

Just bursting into bloom ! 
For such the little stranger was, 

"\Miich came, with sweet perfume, 
To cheer me in my loneliness. 

And di^ive sad thoughts away ; 
A foretaste of those gardens fair, 

Whose flowrets ne'er decay. 

One little rose ! and yet how much 

This welcome gift I prize ! 
No golden treasure ever seemed 

So beauteous in my eyes. 
The kindly tone and look it bore 

To other charms gave birth. 
Enhancing, as they clustered there, 

Its own intrinsic worth. 



A TRIFLING GIFT. 

HoTV oft one kind and gentle word 

Will peace and joy impart, 
And make the warmest sunshine glow 

Upon the saddest heart ! 
How oft one trifling gift will speak, 

Where words are needed not ! 
The heart soon learns the thought to read 

That seeks to soothe its lot. 

Sweet memories linger round each flower 

Which friendship ever gave, 
A holy incense floating o'er 

Each little perfumed grave. 
From every withered leaf and bud 

Flows forth a touching strain, 
Till voice and lute in memory's ear 

Echo the soft refrain. 

I dearly love such chosen gifts, 

For in them all I find 
A welcome balm, most sweet and pure, 

To cheer the lonely mind. 
And nestling 'mid the velvet leaves 

There seems some fairy" fair. 
In perfumed whispers breathing forth 

The kind thoughts written there. 

Still come to me, in all your pride, 

Ye blushing roses bright ! 
Each petal can a page unfold. 

My spirit to delight. 
I joy to feel your presence near, 

Surrounding me with love, 
Like holy angels freely sent 

With blessings from above. 



23 



24: MAT MORNING. 



MAY MORNING. 

Music on the mountain, music in tlie dell, 
Where the rippling streamlets in soft cadence tell 
Of time's rolling current, in their gentle way. 
Sparkling in the sunshine through the livelong day. 

Music in the meadow, music on the lawn, 
Where the blue-eyed flowerets wake to hail the dawn, 
Peeping through the curtain of purest dewy light, 
Which fair diamond fingers spread o'er them at night. 

Music in the woodland, where the trembling leaves 
Whisper words of gladness to the passing breeze, 
Laden with the praises of many a rosy lip, 
Where dehcious nectar fairy forms might sip. 

Now the queen of beauty wanders o'er the plain, 
And the mossy hillocks smile with joy again. 
As with magic pencil she paints glories where 
Perfumes rise to heaven, hke sweet words of prayer. 

In the sloping valleys children of the wood 
Greet her welcome footsteps, in their solitude ; 
And with grace so winning coax a long delay. 
Till the days of summer shall have passed away. 

T\Tien the beams of morning chase the shades of night, 
And a thousand anthems hail the glorious light. 
May our hearts responsive catch the grateful strain. 
Swelling high the chorus to our Father's name : 

"\VTio with bounteous goodness shows his- love and power. 
Making known his wonders freely every hour, 
Teaching us in wisdom, from each blooming spring. 
That immortal future, time to all will bring. 



MORNING JOY. 25 , 



MOENING JOY. 

" Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." 

When the dark clouds of sorrow spread over life's sky, 
And no sunshine of gladness beams forth from on high, 
Then the heart full of sadness, and heavy with grief, 
Opes the fountain of tears In the hope of relief. 

Though most weary and faint in our pilgrimage here, 
And the rough way be wet with the oft-fallen tear. 
Yet the offerings thus given shall not be in vain, 
But as pearls of rejoicing be numbered again. 

The fairest of flowers in silence may bloom, 
And in secret distribute the richest perfume ; 
Even so, when afflictions our chalice may ffll, 
Then the sweetest of comforts for us may distil. 

Brightest gems often lie where no footsteps may go, 
Which need but the light all their value to show ; 
And those spots which the valley of tears often seem 
Are the mountains of peace seen in rapturous dream. 

Like a stranger benighted in darkness most drear. 
Where no kind word is heard, and no bright stars appear, 
The soul in its weariness pines for the day 
Which shall banish those shades which obscured his lone way. 

Though the night may be long, and earth's trials and woes 
Oft encompass our path, and disturb our repose, 
A blest morn shall soon dawn, when ineffable joy 
Shall insure that true peace which no time can destroy. 



26 THE WILLOWS. 

The glorious ligTit of that heavenly day, 
"^Miich shall burst on our sight mth its unfading ray, 
Shall reveal in its splendor the proofs of that love 
Whicli has guided our feet -svhile Tre journeyed above. 

Though the hand be unseen Avhich shall slide through the gloom, 
And no voices be heard as Tve march to the tomb, 
Yet we know that His presence is near to defend 
AYho has promised forever His flock to attend. 

When tbe nigbt shall be past, and immortal we stand 
By the river of life in that beautiful land, 
We shall And that those trials wliich caused our delay 
Were but angels of mercy encamped by the way. 

Still confiding, still trusting, and knowing no fear, 
We will cling to those hopes we have ever held deai*. 
Till the morning shall break and tbe sun shall arise 
On the long-desii-ed mansions prepared in the skies. 



THE WILLOWS. 

" The pendent willows by the sloping banks." 

Poem of B. P. Shillaber, Esq. 

Beneath those leafy willows gi'een, 

In childhood's happy days, 
I oft have found a welcome shade 

From too oppressive rays ; 
And when around my heated brow 

Befi'eshing breezes played, 
Bright scenes have charmed my early dreams. 

In loveliest tints arrayed. 



THE WILLOWS. 27 

Their pliant branches have been made 

Obedient to my care, 
And they have kindly twined for me 

A sylvan grotto fair ; 
Where in my fairy grove I ate 

The strawberries I had found 
But just behind my cool retreat, 

Upon the grassy mound. 

There I have tried my boyish skill 

On whistles, kites, and bows, 
Each new production viewed with pride, 

As every artist knows. 
The winged moments there flew by. 

With peace upon their wings. 
And left those pleasant thoughts behind. 

Which sweet contentment brings. 

Both those who floated merrily 

Upon the summer tide 
And those who crossed its icy breast 

Oft tarried by their side. 
The waving boughs in arches hung 

So graceful and so fair. 
That many a sportive youth beheld 

A life-long vision there. 

Before life's troubled cares can come. 

Or tears of sorrow fall, 
How sweet the sparkling cup of joy. 

Which we would oft recall ! 
Each pleasant spot seems then to glow 

With pleasures ever new, 
And cherished memories then are born, 

Unlike the morning dew. 



28 ANGEL VOICES. 

I loTed those happy moments when 

My heart was light and free, — 
When skies above and earth around 

Smiled loringly on me, — 
When in the future, distant far, 

I saw no clouds arise, 
But golden sunshine light on all, 

"With blessings from the skies. 

Since then I Ve seen the shining goal 

Of which I early dreamed. 
And found those pleasant scenes to be 

Not quite what once they seemed ; 
But light and shade commingling where 

The prospect seemed most fair, — 
Where tears and smiles together blend, 

And joy, and pain, and care. 

Our lives are not quite all a dream. 

Though pleasures bud and bloom, 
Like fragrant flowers, which often find 

A kind but early tomb ; 
But far beyond these earthly scenes, 

Where fondest hopes decay, 
A night of sadness shall be changed 

To an eternal dav. 



ANGEL VOICES. 

When night with her sombre shadows 
Broods in silence o'er the earth. 

Where are scenes of bitter sadness. 
And of joyless, heartless mirth. 



ANGEL VOICES. 29 

List I to sweet angel voices 

Stealing through the stilly air, 
Welcome news most gladly bringing 

From their star-lit dwelling fair. 

When the heart is bowed in weakness 

By the weight of pain and grief, 
Then I hear their pure lips telling 

Joyous things for my relief. 
Love ordains the grievous chastening, 

Drawing children nearer home, 
Where the soul — earth's fetters broken — 

Would most gladly haste to come. 

Choicest flowers crushed beneath us 

Yield their hidden treasures rare, 
Freely their sweet breath bestowing 

On the quiet morning air ; 
So afflictions, when they press us 

Like a burden down to earth. 
Only bid the heart's choice incense 

Brighter burn, and prove its worth. 

Angel voices are above us 

And around us, day by day, 
Blessed words forever telling 

While from earth we look away. 
To the weeping and the sorrowing 

Speak they of celestial things, 
With the balm of consolation 

Sweetly dropping from their wings. 

Stay, kind heavenly strangers, linger. 

As my willing guests abide ; 
Pearls of truth I then shall gather. 

If ye tarry by my side. 
3 



30 A MORNING WALK. 

Cast your camps secure about me, 
As once round Jerusalem ; 

Choicest honors then shall crown me, 
Like a brilliant diadem. 



A MORNING WALK. 

When the sun is brightly beaming 

In the morning sky, 
And, awaking from their dreaming, 

Wild-flowers look on high, 
Violets blue. 
All wet with dew, 
Bid our roaming footstejDS linger, 
As each points with jewelled finger 

To the azure clouds, which seem 

Fairy lands of which they dream. 

Birdlings with their bosoms yearning 

For the days of spring, 
To their summer homes returning, 

From the south-land, bring 
Melodies sweet, 
With love replete, 
Leading our best thoughts to heaven. 
As sweet incense gladly given 

To that God who guards us aU, 

Watching e'en the sparrow's fall. 

Flowerets in the woodland breathing 

Silent words of prayer. 
To the passing breeze bequeathing 
Fragrance piu-e and rare, 
Bring to us joy 
Without alloy, 



A MORNING WALK. 31 

As with pleasure we bend o'er them, 
Humbly worshipping before them, 

Reading on each petal fair 

Precious truths abiding there. 

Music from pure fountains gushing, 

Sparkling clear and free, 
O'er the pebbly pavements rushing. 

Toward the deep blue sea, 
Falls on my ear. 
Listening to hear. 
As in days of happy childhood, 
When I roamed far in the wild- wood, 

Gathering lilies from the brooks. 

Floating in fair shady nooks. 

Thus in Memory's halls I wander 

Where I used to tread, 
And in silence often ponder 

On scenes long, long fled. 
Wishing to view 
Sunshine and dew. 
On some bright and lovely morning, 
When sweet flowers, the meads adorning. 

Breathe sweet odors on the air. 

Giving blessing everywhere. 

Near " still waters " soon forever 

Joyous feet shall stand. 
Where earth's fairest scenes shall never 

Fade, in that blest land ; 
Where'er for thee 
Glory shall be. 
On the blooming plains of Eden, 
'Neath the briUiant skies of heaven. 

Untold bliss awaits each soul, 

Sighing for that shining goal. 



32 TO A FRIEND. 

TO A FRIEND, 

ON DEPARTING FOR THE "SUNNY SOUTH. 

When tossed upon the billows, 

Beneath an autumn sky, 
"Whicli often rise tempestuous, 

Like mountains towerino; hio;h, 
May His strong arm protect thee. 

As on thy native strand, 
Who holds the waters safely 

Within his mighty hand. 

And should the storm-king venture 

To battle with thy bark, 
• And rudely dash upon thee 

The restless waters dark, 
Then through the gloom look upward. 

And banish every fear, 
For angels will attend thee. 

To give thee needed cheer. 

For near God's children ever 

Such messengers abide, 
To shield them with their presence, 

At noon or eventide ; 
And thouoh hfe's course be changeful, 

E'en like an April sky. 
In pleasure or in sorrow 

Om' guardian friend is nigh. 

And when shall breathe upon you 
The fragrant southern wind, 

Think of the stricken lone one, 
In suffering left behind, — 



OCTOBER. 

And send a perfumed message 
To northern climes away, 

Upon the wings of morning, 
To cheer each weary day. 

When the cold winds of winter 

Shall pierce my casement through. 
How often 'mid the stillness 

Shall I then think of you, 
And pine for lovely flowers 

Beneath far sunnier skies. 
Where roses waste their sweetness, 

And beauty never dies ! 

But I shall long remember 

Your deeds of kindness done ; 
Recalling happy hours 

Forever past and gone ; 
And when, with joy, I enter 

Within the pearly gate. 
May blessings still attend you 

While for the crown you wait ! 



33 



OCTOBER. 

Autumn, with her blushing face. 
Greets us now with modest grace. 
Like a maid whose heart is stirred. 
When the voice of love is heard. 
Summer's smiles had power to win, 
Sunny as it ere had been. 
And bright flowers accorded well 
Silently kind thoughts to tell. 



34 OCTOBER. 

Eichly dressed in gay attire, 
Whicli must needs our praise inspire, 
Varied with both light and shade, 
Like a robe of rainbows made. 
Now she comes a fairy queen, 
O'er the hills and meadows green, 
While on each succeeding day 
Steps of beauty mark her way. 

Tasselled corn whose golden ears 
Glow as her bright car appears, 
Glad to feel her magic wand. 
As in marshalled ranks they stand ; 
While the sheaves of ripening grain, 
Scattered o'er the bounteous plain, 
Bow their heads with reverent air, 
Proud her welcome smiles to share. 

Trellised vines along the wall 
Quickly heed her gentle call. 
And reveal their purple store. 
Just enough to tempt the more ; 
While the orchard's generous pride 
Greets her with its juicy tide. 
Peeping from a russet screen. 
Joying thus to grace the scene. 

Could we, like the mountain trees, 
Know what words she spoke to these, 
As she kissed a trembling leaf 
On its emerald bed beneath. 
We might tell, though high and great. 
All must find a lowly state. 
When earth's pleasures fade away, 
At the close of life's short day. 



A MINISTERING SPIRIT. 35 

Could we know lier parting word, 
Which the rustHng leaflet stirred, 
We might tell, though all must die, 
When death's chilling winds come nigh, 
That again in lovelier bloom, 
Rising from the silent tomb, 
We shall find a glorious home, 
Where dread change can never come. 



A MINISTEKING SPIRIT. 

An angel from the realms of light 
Once crossed my path in sorrow's night, 
Who lingered till the break of day. 
Content to wipe my tears away. 
And bring blest sunshine to my heart, 
Causing the clouds of grief to part. 

In earthly garb the " stranger" came, 
Unheard her voice, unknown her name ; 
But there was something in her eye 
Which spoke her mission from on high. 
To comfort an afflicted soul. 
O'er whom deep billows often roll. 

I might have thought her home below. 
For thus her form would seem to show ; 
But as she turned her to depart, 
Bequeathing blessings on my heart. 
E'en while I mused on heavenly things, 
I thought I saw her folded wings. 



36 ox A DETT-DROP. 

Sweet memories long linger wliere 

Earth's sunny spots seem bright and fair, 

And gratitude our bosoms fill, 

Though words be few, and thoughts be still ; 

But give me sight to plainly see, 

TVhen angel hands shall wait on me. 



ON A DEW-DROP. 

Dew-drop ti'embling in the sun, 

Like a tinv world of light, 
SjDarkling on thy emerald bed. 

Like a diamond pure and bright, 
Let me in thy bosom trace 

Proofs of wisdom, love, and power. 
As so skilfully displayed 

In the richly tinted flower. 

Let me -view those gorgeous shades. 

Playing round thy jewelled form, 
Like fair rainbows azure set, 

"When has passed the summer storm. 
Into thy clear depths I gaze. 

Seeking out some faiiy fair, 
Who with magic wand might paint 

Such celestial colors there. 

Ocean deep for tiny sailors, 

Floating o'er its crystal tide. 
Or upon its billows tossing, 

As to fragrant ports they ride. 
Dwell they there in silent grandeur, 

As it were the only home, 
Where true pleasure e'er was sought for. 

Or sflad sunshine e'er could come. 



THE BREATH OF JUNE. ' 37 

Myriad stars we see above us, 

Sparkling with their mellow light, 
Like gems wrought in the dark curtain 

Dropped by angel hands at night. 
Most subhme the prospect o'er us 

When these distant worlds we view, 
But the wondrous hand that made them 

Also formed a drop of dew. 



THE BEEATH OF JUNE. 

Through my open casement stealing, 

Comes the breath of flowering June, 
Welcome charms to me revealing. 

Redolent with rich perfume. 
Summer winds, most softly sighing 

Through the bursting blossoms near, 
Bear the whispers of the dying 

To my lonely, listening ear. 

Yerdant meads in peace reposing 

By a gently flowing stream, 
When the weary day is closing. 

Charm one like a fairy dream, 
To the evening breeze bequeathing 

Gifts which I would not resign, — 
Grateful odors kindly breathing. 

As the twiHght hours decline. 

Where bright flowers are gayly growing, 
Pleasing every sparkling eye. 

There would I, my praise bestowing, 
Joy with them to look on high. 



38 ■ MOONLIGHT EVENINGS. 

Murmurino; woodlands, ever ringinoj 
With the song of many a bu-d, 

To my solitude are bringing 

Sounds which oft my heart have stirred. 

When the lonely hours are dreary, 

And no voice disturbs the gloom, 
When distressed, and worn, and weary. 

Then sweet floVers can cheer my room. 
In the stilly night may linger 

By our side some angel form, 
Who may write with magic finger 

Words which a sad heart may warm. 

O for those once happy hours 

When my heart and steps were light, — 
When I roamed among the flowers, 

Finding there a pure delight ! 
But these days of joain and sorrow 

Soon will pass with all their gloom ; 
Soon a bhssful, bright to-morrow 

Shall arise beyond the tomb. 



MOONLIGHT EVENINGS 

I LOVE the moonlight evenings, 

So beautiful and fair. 
When scented leaves and blossoms 

Perfume the quiet air ; 
I love the welcome stillness 

These tranquil hours bring 
To care-worn, weary pilgrims, 
* When time is on the winoj. 



MOONLiaHT EVENINGS. 39 

I love the pleasant moonlight, 

Its silver rays entwined 
With golden threads of sunshine, 

Which daylight has resigned ; 
I love the mellow radiance 

It scatters all around, — 
Its shaded mantle hanging 

Where quiet nooks are found. 

I love to see the glory 

Shine through the veil above, 
Spread o'er us like the pinions 

Of a protecting dove, — 
Where, in my steady gazing, 

I think I almost see 
Some seraph in his beauty 

With blessing smile on me. 

How oft in boyhood's fancies. 

When zephyrs fanned the air. 
Upon a fleecy cloudlet 

I 've seen bright angels, fair, 
And wondering have listened 

To hear some heavenly strain, 
If it perchance should echo 

O'er hill and vale again ! 

I love these pleasant moments, 

So freely to us given. 
When wandering thoughts collected 

May rest intent on heaven ; 
When in a close communion 

With blooming nature round, 
Our hearts' most grateful praises 

Like incense may be found. 



40 THE SPRINGING- GRASS. 

S"weet memories always linger 

Around such happy hours, 
As welcome to our feelings 

As dew-drops to the flowers. 
How often, on life's journey, 

Bright waymarks we behold 
Where pleasant moonlight evenings 

Can sweetest thoughts unfold ! 



THE SPRINGING GRASS. 

Slowly, surely, still increasing, 

Springs the fresh and tender grass, 
To fulfil its generous mission 

While the rosy months may pass ; 
Painting all the lawns and meadows 

With a lovely emerald hue, — 
Skirting all the murmuring woodlands, 

Which would share its beauty too. 

Violets with purple eyelids 

Nestle in the mossy bed. 
Peeping out with smiles so winning 

At the azure clouds o'erhead. 
Wild-flowers bloom amid the valleys. 

Where the echoing streamlets glide, 
Weaving shades within earth's carpet 

Which no artist's hands have dyed. 

Beauty reigns all o'er the landscape. 
With her new-born charms replete, 

While we gaze with holy feelings. 
As she walks with virgin feet 



O, SPEAK TO ME KINDLY! 41 

Throngli the dells and up the hill-sides, 

By the river's sparkling tide, 
Dropping flowers to mark her footsteps, 

With the purest thoughts allied. 

As the tender grass is springing, 

Silently thus blessing all, 
Causing those new charms and pleasures 

Which fond memories must recall, 
May that Hand that paints the landscape, 

Humbling all man's boasted art. 
Write e'en with a golden sunbeam 

Living truths upon our heart. 

Casting off the chains that bound them. 

All the tiny buds of spring 
Smile to greet the blessed sunshine, 

Which to them new life will bring ; 
Even so, still patient waiting, 

Gazing upward to the sky, 
May we hail that welcome spring-time 

Which shall dawn when grief shall die ! 



O, SPEAK TO ME KINDLY! 

O, SPEAK to me kindly I 
When through each long and weary day. 

Imprisoned in the gloom, 
I see no gifts of blooming May, 

And breathe no sweets of June, 
Then a kind spoken word can soon bring one glad cheer. 
Like the sweetest of incense on zephyrs brought near. 
Speak to me kindly ! 



42 o, SPEAK TO iiE kindly: 

O, speak to me gently I 
For deep -within the lieart may lie 

The bitter springs of grief, 
"Which need the light of heaven's fair sky 
To bring a sweet relief, 
And a kind, gentle word will oft strengthen my heart. 
Bidding sorrow and sadness most quickly depart. 
Speak to me gently ! 

Speak cheerfLilly to me ! 
"When on my burdened spirits fall 

Some dark and lowering clouds, 
"Which with portentous ills appaU 
In unrelentless crowds, 
Then a glad, joyous tone with sweet music can cheer, 
Like melodious strains from heaven's portals brought near. 
Speak cheerfully to me ! 

Speak lovingly to me I 
Such holy words fall on my ear, 
From lips sincere and true, 
As welcome as bright flowers appear, 
To greet the crystal dew ; 
For the richest of gifts are the offerings of love. 
E'er distilling unseen from their fountain above. 
Speak lovingly to me I 

Speak hopefully to me I 
O, teU of rest above the gloom. 

Within the heavenly home, — 
Of wondrous bliss beyond the tomb, 
Where sorrow ne'er can come ! 
O, tell me of beauty, where glories unfold 
Immortal, unchanging through ages untold. 
Speak hopefully to me I 



FADED LEAVES. 43 



FADED LEAVES. 

The faded leaves in silence fall, 

Touclied by autumnal frost, — 
Their magic tints are scarcely seen 

Ere they are wholly lost ; 
Even so our cherished prospects fail, 

When fairest oft they seem, — 
Like golden gifts in visions blest, 

They prove an empty dream. 

Not all a dream, — for life has joys 

And hopes forever dear, 
A well-spring whence delicious streams 

Gush forth most pure and clear ; 
For in the heart sweet peace is known, 

And love attending waits 
To catch the faintest whisper there, 

Then opens wide her gates. 

The trembling leaves in quiet grew, 

Nor foe nor danger feared. 
But drank the sunshine and the dew, 

And smiled when storms appeared ; 
Thus may I on my homeward path 

Behold heaven's glories nigh, 
Nor faint when adverse winds approach. 

When clouds obscure life's sky. 

As sentinels with glistening shields, 

The dewy leaves at dawn 
Announced to blooming nature round 

The brilliant car of morn ; 



44 FADED LEAVES. 

Forsaken now, tlieir watch-towers stand 

To mark the place below, 
Where troops in scarlet vestures rest, 

Encamped in tents of snow. 

Life's spring-time smiles with joy and peace, 

And knows few bitter tears, — 
Its sunny sky, all bright with hope, 

Provokes no gloomy fears ; 
But when in grief's desponding night 

The winds of sorrow moan. 
Like withered leaves, earth's pleasures seem 

To lie entombed alone. 

Above the dead the sighing winds 

Their mournful requiem sing, 
"Whose plaintive strains to every heart 

The saddest memories bring. 
The dearly loved — the good — the true 

Like flowers have passed away, 
But left the fragrance of their lives. 

To cheer us while we stay. 

Though all must fade, and feel the power 

Of death's relentless hand. 
The veil which hides all earthly scenes 

Reveals the better land. 
There joys transcendent fill the breast, 

And flowers lovelier bloom, 
There no sad change can e'er invade 

The life beyond the tomb. 



THE BRIEF ANSWER. 45 



THE BRIEF ANSWER. 

I MUSED In silence, and I thouglit 

Of blessed days to come, 
When I in triumpli should be brought 

To my eternal home ; 
Where angels in attendance wait, 

Companions for the blest. 
Who enter, through the pearly gates, 

The promised land of rest. 

I thought of mansions long prepared 

With walls of jewelled light, 
To which on earth was naught compared. 

So .glorious was the sight ! — 
Of groves, and streams, and fragrant bowers, 

With every charm replete, 
Where Eden's choicest, fairest flowers, 

Were clustering round my feet. 

I thought of rest, sweet welcome rest 

From grief, and tears, and pain ; 
Where, with celestial beauty blest, 

To live were joy again. 
I saw an angel joyful raise 

His censer high in air. 
Announcing, with triumphant praise. 

That death ne'er entered there. 

My heart was stirred with great deKght, 

Surprising was the scene ! 
Could this e'er greet my wondering sight. 

Or must it prove a dream ? 
4 



46 ON A LILY. 

Can such a home be mine, I cried, 
Mine such a realm of bliss ? 

I paused, — " a still, small voice" replied, 
And sweetly answered, " Yes." 



ON A LILY. 

Once a fragrant, snowy lily 

Floated down a crystal stream, 
Lingerino; not 'mid scented flowers. 

Where green meads with beauty teem ; 
Though it sailed through nook so winsome 

And where dancing sunbeams play, 
Yet, refusing e'er to linger, 

Onward still it sped its way. , 

Though it passed retreats most shady. 

Where the festooned arches hung, 
To protect from burning sunshine 

Dew-drops hid its leaves among, — 
Swiftly passing dimpled eddies. 

Dancing o'er the rocks below, 
Still intent upon its journey. 

Paused it not their bhss to know. 

Onward, onward, still pursuing. 

Gathering strength as on it sped, 
Tarried not the snow-white sailer 

Till it found its destined bed 
On the breast of heaving ocean, 

Leaping o'er the billowy tide, 
Watching e'en with calm composure, 

Crested billows by its side. 



ON A LILY. 47 

Even so, pure moral courage, 

Passing down the stream of life. 
Deaf to all the world's allurements, 
, Pauses not to join the strife. 
Shunning e'en the paths of pleasure, 

Though so harmless they appear, 
Beauteous as the modest daisy. 

Which adorns the new-born year. 

Sailing swiftly down the current 

With the tempter's power beset, 
Lingers not the moral sailor, 

Though life's cup may sparkle yet. 
Though the boisterous winds of passion 

Drive him where bright eddies foam, 
Still protected by his armor. 

To his heart no evils come. 

Onward still with strength emboldened, 

Where the path of duty leads, 
Soon he finds the golden haven. 

Where his honored fame he reads. 
Strong to meet all forms of error, 

Which like mists obscure the way, 
Safe he rises o'er each billow, 

Chasing grievous iUs away. 

Conqueror over all temptation, 

Never strong in faith as now. 
Virtue her true passport grants him 

By her signet on his brow. 
To life's warfare then he marches, 

Like a veteran tried and brave, 
Never in the van he falters 

Till he finds a glorious grave. 



48 "WE ARE GOING HOME. 



WE ARE GOING HOME. 

We are going home to that blessed shore 
Where the weary shall rest when their toils are o'er, 
Where the sorrows of earth and its cares come not, 
And its tears and its trials are ever forgot ; 
Where the Httle flock will delight to roam 
By the crystal streams of their beautiful home, 
Where the jewelled walls and the streets of gold 
Shall e'er be the abode of the heavenly fold. 
O that beautiful home ! 

We are going home, and we gladly press on 
To the end of the race, when the crown wiU be won ; 
Where the welcome is heard at the bright pearly gates, 
Where for pilgrims eternal feHcity waits ; 
Where the sunshine of glory shall beam o'er the earth, 
When renewed it awakes to an Edenic birth ; 
When the morning stars shall rehearse their strain, 
And the sons of God shout in one joyful acclaim. 
O that beautiful home ! 

We are going home, we have long delayed 
In the thorny paths where our feet have strayed. 
And we long to view those flowery plains, 
Where unfading beauty forever reigns ; 
Where the richest perfume will charm the air, 
For the tree of life will e'er blossom there ; 
And sweet music float on each gentle breeze 
As its echoes play through the whispering trees. 
O that beautiful home ! 

We are going home, where the glorious light 
Of the perfect day shall dispel the night, 
Where the dearly loved who have gone to rest 
We shall once more greet near the Saviour's breast ; 



HAPPY MOMENTS. 49 

And in concert join with the heavenly choirs 
In loud anthems attuned to pure golden lyres, 
Where the ransomed throng shall with triumph reign, 
And the angel of peace dwell on earth again. 
O that beautiful home ! 

We are going home, and we joy to know 
That earth's weary march will soon end below, — 
For the distant heights of the beautiful land 
We most gladly behold, as on Pisgah we stand; 
And we long to roam o'er those pastures green 
Where the river of life flows its vales between ; 
Where the Lord shall lead like a shepherd his fold. 
Where pleasures fail not, and time never grows old. 
O that beautiful home ! 



HAPPY MOMENTS. 

Happy moments, gifts of love, 
Angel visits from above ; 
Sumptuous feasts in visions bright, 
Richest as they take their flight ; 
Fleeting oft as perfumes sweet. 
With their secret charms replete ; 
Yet they leave fond memories near, 
To dispel the falling tear. 

Happy moments, like those notes, 
Whose spell on trembling ether floats, 
Borne, as from celestial spheres, 
To enrapture mortal ears ; — 
Music from an angel's lyre. 
Purest joys must needs inspire ; 
Then the soul would fain be free 
To swell the lofty harmony. 



50 HAPPY MOMENTS. 

Happy moments, drops of dew- 
Gorgeous as each rainbow hue, 
Fairest pearls of liquid light, 
Dropped hj angel hands at night ; 
As unseen they e'er distil. 
And with joy the sad heart fill, 
Silently thus charming all 
When the shades of sorrow fall. 

Happy moments, like the gems 

Glittering in diadems. 

Yet more pleasing far than they, 

SparkUng through life's changing day ; 

When the soul exulting sings 

Of celestial, holy things. 

Earthly treasures, though most rare, 

Cannot with its joys compare. 

Happy moments, beams of light 
Radiant in grief's cheerless night, 
Often seen 'midst smiles and tears, 
'Mid fond hopes and lingering fears ; 
Like blest sunshine they convey 
Deepening shadows fast away, 
And reveal new founts of peace. 
Joyous with a rich increase. 

Happy moments, stars of night. 
Brilliants of celestial light. 
Golden beams, from glory given, 
Winning us from earth to heaven ; 
'Mid earth's gloom sweet tidings come 
From that better, brighter home. 
Bidding us still journey on, 
Till the conquering crown is won. 



THE spirit's whisper. 51 



THE SPIRIT'S WHISPER. 

Gracious Spirit, I would listen 

To tliy voice so full of love, 
Whispering in the soul's deep stillness, 

Holy tidings from above ; 
I would have my heart made ready, 

For thy peaceful, quiet rest, 
As a dovelet seeks unwearied 

To provide herself a nest. 

I would cherish thy blest visit, 

When reproof must needs be given, 
As kind tokens of God's favor, 

Borne on angel wings from heaven ; 
I would covet such a guidance. 

Lest my erring footsteps stray. 
And would feel thy beams around me. 

Like a sun to light my way. 

Whisper to me, tell of glories 

Which adorn the heavenly home, 
Where, through grace and faith made perfect, 

Joyous I at length would come ; 
Let me hear the blessed anthems 

Which pure seraphs love to sing, 
To which golden harps in concert 

Sweetest notes forever bring. 

Gentle Spirit, whisper to me. 

When in sadness and in tears. 
Let the " still small voice " melodious 

Quick dispel my rising fears ; 



OZ NATURE S PAGES. 

Onward then, still home^vard tending, 
Should I grasp the golden chain, 

By which blessings pure and holy 
Visit earth like welcome rain. 



NATURE'S PAGES. 

Let me read from Nature's pages, — 

Truths sublime lie written there ; 
Let me find among its records 

Thoughts Hke jewels passing fair ; 
Let me trace the hand of wisdom 

In all things we here behold : 
Grove and mountain, stream and fountain, 

Each have wonders to unfold. 

Forests with their waving shadows. 

Skirted round with gi-ove and lawn, 
Tell of silence where, unheeded. 

Beauty without art is born. 
Sohtude oft nurtures fancies, 

But in secret, too, are found 
Angel footsteps softly falling, 

So no ear can catch the sound. 

"Voices 'mid the balmy stillness 

Speak most sweetly to the heart, 
Tn pure accents which if heeded 

Bid all gloomy thoughts depart 
Teaching that in patient waiting, 

Strength is gained, though slow our speed 
Towering oaks the storm can battle. 

Zephyrs may uproot the weed. 



nature's pages. 53 

Mountains, kingly in their grandeur, 

Steadfast point toward loftier skies ; 
So our souls, by faith made stronger, 

Would unfettered homeward rise. 
Upward rising, — onward tending 

With our spirits constant, pure, 
May our hopes be firmly rooted 

On foundations strong and sure. 

Crystal streamlets softly flowing 

Onward towards their goal afar, 
Bearing on their azure bosoms 

Fleecy cloud and glistening star, 
Speak of Time's swift-gliding current, 

With our blessings mirrored there ; 
Royal proofs most kindly given 

Of God's wondrous love and care. 

Like to fountains cool and sparkling, 

Bubbling up from depths below, 
Showing by their silvery music 

All the good they would bestow : 
May our pleasures, gushing upward 

From deep wells of truth and love, 
Spread abroad an influence showing 

Their true source is from above. 

Let me list to Nature's music. 

Sounding o'er her wide domain ; 
In the purling, rippling brooklet, — 

In the soft-descending rain ; 
Let me hear the rolling thunder, 

When the vivid lightnings play, — 
Feel the glorious Power that guides them. 

Trusting it to guide my way. 



54 AN angel's visit. 

Earth is filled vrith -^vondrons beauty, 

If but thankful ttc behold 
Treasures easier found and cared for 

Than the Tvorld's great idol, — gold. 
Costly mines oft lie imbedded 

Xear our footsteps day by day, 
From which pearls of truth are gathered 

If but patience lead the •way. 



AX AXGEL'S VISIT. 

A STRAXGEB stood before my cot, 
His garb vras neat, though poor, 

He said he -wished a resting-spot, 

• I opened vdde my door. 

He entered, and my board I spread, 
Xor did my best deny ; 

A *• cup of water cool."' he said 
"Would all his wants supply. 

He took it with a heavenly smile. 

Just sipping from the brim : 
Xor did I even dream the while 

The good to come from him ; 
But quickly to my bosom flowed 

The most transcendent bliss. 
No fairj^'s power e'er bestowed 

Such joy and peace as this. 

He left me, and his modest dress 
Grew brilHant as the light, 

As in his passing loveliness 
He vanished from mv sight. 



THE ROSE BY THE TVATSIDE. 55 

Then well I knew an angel fair 

Had been my willing guest, 
And memory's signet sparkles there, 

When by the stranger blest. 



THE ROSE BY THE WAYSIDE 

A LITTLE rose bloomed in the way, 
In which I roamed one sunny day ; 

It looked so fair, 
I wondered why alone it grew. 
And why so long concealed from view, 

While nestling there. 

Its crimson petals wide outspread 
A grateful perfume freely shed ; 

Dripping with dew. 
It seemed in whispered tones to say, 
" Shunning the glances of the gay, 

/ bloomed for you." 

" The sunshine kissed my lips at morn, 
Soon as I peeped to hail the dawn. 

With blushes red ; 
I was content, though day by day 
No roaming footsteps passed this way, 

By beauty led." 

I claimed the treasure, pure and fair. 
As all mine own ; with special care 

I kept it long ; 
It said sweet sayings o'er and o'er, 
But one bright morn it spoke no inore, — 

Its leaves were gone. 



56 BUBBLING ECHOES. 

Thus in the varied paths of life, 
Amid its cares, its toils, its strife, 

We often roam ; 
Then some sweet memories chain us here, 
Some holy thoughts dispel all fear, 

And guide us home. 

And when earth's charms, like withered flowers, 
Amid afflictions painful hours, 

No longer cheer, 
A holy peace, a quiet joy, 
Which unbelief can ne'er destroy, 

Brings heaven near. 



BUBBLING ECHOES. 

Echoes from the crystal fountain. 

Springing up from depths below, 
Pure as on the cloud-capt mountain 

Falls the white and spotless snow ; 
Let me hear thy liquid music, 

Sounding forth from granite keys, 
Touched by fairies' jewelled fingers, — 

Sounds sublime but equal these. 

Streamlets from the bubbling fountain, 

Gliding on thy steady way. 
Let me on thy dimpled surface 

See the loitering eddies play ; 
Let me hear the rush of Avaters, 

Foaming o'er thy rocky bed. 
Like a white-plumed warrior marching 

Of his loyal troops ahead. 



BUBBLING ECHOES. 57 

Ocean, to the flowing streamlets, 

And the living fountains due, 
Let me hear triumphant numbers 

Grandly sounding forth from you , 
Let me in thy crested billows 

See the jewels sparkle free, 
While a thousand rainbows mingle 

With the deep, unfathomed sea. 

Echoes from the crystal fountain 

Speak in silver tones to me. 
Of pure pleasures gushing upward 

From those depths no eye can see ; 
Sparkling like thy rippling waters. 

Deeds of virtue I behold, 
Dearer to the soul's aifections 

Than rare gifts of sordid gold. 

Streamlet joyous rushing onward, 

With thy blue lips kissing showers. 
Which most bounteous Heaven bestows, 

On thy banks bestrewed with flowers. 
Let me, like thy mirrored surface, 

Fully drink of truth and love. 
Which, reflected all around me. 

Would in praise return above. 

Ocean deep, deep sounding ocean ! 

In thy depths the type I see 
Of that matchless grace which Heaven 

Has most freely shown to me. 
May I, like its outspread waters. 

Feel the sunshine of God's love, 
Till, on billowy surges weary. 

Rest I seek like Noah's dove. 



58 MAKT. 

Fountain, streamlet, ocean boundless, 

Blend in one harmonious strain. 
Echoing back in liquid breathings 

Their pure native tones again ; 
Let me catch the inspiration. 

Full and pure and free as these. 
Let me hear the secret whispers 

Of fair brooks and murmurino: trees. 



MARY. 

What name falls on affection's ear, 
In silver}^ notes more soft and clear, 

Than Mary ? 
Like music heard in perfumed bowers. 
It sweetly charms life's halcyon hours, — 

Mary ! 

What name, amid kind friendship's throng, 
Sounds purer in a poet's song, 

Than Mary ? 
It echoes kindly in the heart, 
And can the tenderest thoughts impart, — 

Mary! 

What whispered tone is sooner heard. 
Or holier thoughts in quiet stirred. 

Than Mary ? 
It breathes of pure and heavenly love, 
Transplanted from the courts above, — 

Mary ! 



MARY. 59 

It is a name that angels know, 
For they all saw the fame below, 

Of " Mary." 
And love and friendship plainly spoke. 
When once the " box of ointment " broke, — 

Mary! 

Full many a deed in sacred song 
Must still in gratitude belong 

To "Mary." 
The memory of that humble name 
True piety and worth proclaim, — 

Mary! 

What more euphonious name can cheer, 
Or holy thoughts make still more dear, 

Than "Mary"? 
Then let me hear the music long. 
Still let it charm my muse's song, — 

Mary! 

May but the memory of this word, 
In darkness or in sunshine heard, — 

Of Mary, 
E'er bring responses to my heart, 
Too sweet, too pure, to soon depart, — 

Mary ! 

And when my race is almost run, 
My work on earth forever done. 

Here, Mary ! 
May one loved sound fall on my ear, 
If but in one kind whisper clear, — 

Mary! 



60 AUTUMN LEAVES. 



AUTUMN LEAVES. 

AuTUMX leaflets g^ently falling 

To the soil which gave them birth, 
TVith their gorgeous colors blending 

Like a rainbow dropped to earth, 
Speak in accents sad, but truthfU, 

Of those hopes we hold most dear, 
Whispering, like the sweetest music, 

Blessed thoughts the heart to cheer. 

First, in vigor bright and healthful, 

"With their emerald beauty dressed. 
Fanned by zeph^TS richly laden 

With the odors of the West, 
Sunny skies above them bending 

Sport they all in life's young morn, 
To each beauteous scene bestowing 

Eden's freshness with the dawn. 

Now with vestures richly varied, 

Russet, orange, green, and red. 
Crowning all the woods with glory 

Ere they seek their mossy bed ; 
Thus they leave a welcome picture 

As a parting gift to all. 
Lest we moirrn too much their absence, 

Or lament their lowly fall. 

One by one they droop and wither. 
Touched by Autumn's chilling frost, 

Till bright leaves, with silver linings, 
Are in all their beauty lost : 



BRING FLOWEKS. 61 

Lost to sight, not dead forever, 

For in memory's hall remain 
Fairest landscapes, fresh and fadeless, 

Till glad Spring shall bloom again. 

So life's scenes are often changeful, 

Varying with the light and shade ; 
Where the fairest flowers blossom, 

There the thorn its home hath made. 
But though clouds may dim our prospects, 

And our fondest hopes decay, 
Brighter is the day before us. 

When the night is chased away. 

Like cool autumn's fading leaflets, 

We must heed our final call, 
When the silver cord is loosened, 

And the shadows round us fall ; 
Then with pure, angelic beauty, 

Free from every earthly stain, 
Then the soul shall find its treasures, 

When its spring-time comes again. 



BRING FLOWEES. 

Bring flowers to me each sunny morn. 

Bespangled with the dew ; 
For gifts like these, so pure and fair. 

Awaken thoughts of you. 
I '11 breathe their fragrance floating near 

When silent and alone, 
And bless the hand that gathered them, 

To make them all mine own. 
5 



62 BRING FLO WE PwS. 

Bring flowers, for thev sweetly tell 

Of blooming meads around, — 
Of pleasant nooks, where velvet leaves 

Of every shade are found. 
Bring lilies from the crystal stream, — 

TTild roses from the wall, — 
Full many a pet from woodland homes, 

Which former days recall. 

I love the mild and gentle breath 

AMiich wakes the buds of spring, 
And bids the fragrant violets bloom. 

To which fond memories cling. 
E'en now I think I see them smile 

Upon the hillocks green, 
Just peeping with cerulean eyes 

The golden moss between. 

I love the welcome summer, too, 

Keplete with beauteous flowers, 
Which scatter incense through the air. 

And charm the twilight hours ; 
Like sisters, hand in hand they glide 

To beautj-'s gay boudoir, — 
One turns the key with fragrant heuid 

The other opes the door. 

Within a trea^ry of sweets 

Would I in quiet rest, 
And hold some blushing roses close 

To my sad, troubled breast ; 
Then should I dream of lovely bowers, 

Where health and beautj' stay. 
While speed the joyous, happy hour3 

Thi"oughout the hvelong day. 



JESUS, MY HOPE. 63 

When I am gone, let flowers smile 

Above my lowly form, 
Because a weary soul has passed 

Beyond life's fitful storm ; 
With perfumed lips they plainly tell 

Of life beyond the tomb. 
Where God shall with a holy light 

The darkest way illume. 



JESUS, MY HOPE. 

With hope in Christ, I fear no ill, 
For his right hand supports me still. 
Though trials here my paths surround, 
I boast in him my strength is found ; 
He will supply sustaining grace 
To those who seek with love his face. 

When clouds around my tent prevail. 
And gloomy thoughts my peace assail, — 
When cherished hopes are severed here. 
Where strong hearts know the bitter tear. 
In him a safe retreat I find, 
A refuge from each stormy wind. 

When bound by sad affliction's chain, 
Oppressed with grief, beset with pain. 
When tedious days new troubles weave, 
So that to dust my soul would cleave, 
One lively hope illumes the night, — 
Jesus is near, though veiled from sight. 

When joy and love extend their wings, 
My heart with wonder often sings, 



64 JESUS, MY HOPE. 

That I have found in one so dear 

A bosom friend, forever near, 

Who will his promises defend, 

And ne'er forsake, though time should end. 

In Jesus all my peace, is found, 

He makes my purest joys abound, 

He bids me at his table wait, 

To share the banquet, free and great ; 

I tarry long, my soul is fed 

By angel hands with heavenly bread. 

His presence I more highly prize 
Than all the gold beneath the skies ; 
My birthright here I would not lose, 
For all the honors I could choose ; 
More precious far than rubies rare 
His words my cherished treasures are. 

When on the mount of faith I stand, 
And view the promised " better land," 
My soul rejoices then to hear 
The glorious day is drawing near. 
When " this same Jesus " shall again 
" Return" to earth, with saints to reign. 

That blessed day I long to see, 
When Israel's hope complete shall be. 
When, gathered by their Shepherd's arm, 
The " little flock " shall fear no harm ; 
For pain and death shall be no more, 
Nor tears be known on Canaan's shore. 

Blest Jesus ! I would see thy face, 
In whom I trust for every grace : 
Thy friendly counsels I would hear. 
AVith cheerful heart and willing ear ; 



FALLING SNOW. 65 

O, grant me still thy power divine, 
Thy arms of love round me entwine ! 

His name shall be my theme of praise 
Throughout the remnant of my days ; 
And when within the vale of death, 
Then with my last expiring breath 
Confiding still will I look up, 
And loud exclaim, " Jesus, my hope ! " 

And when the last loud trump shall sound, 
To call the sleeping from the ground. 
When from the skies our King shall come. 
To give the saints their own " sweet home," 
In grateful strains shall I rejoice 
That Jesus was my special choice. 



FALLING SNOW. 

In airy crowds from the regions above. 

Silent and pure as a whisper of love, 

These winged sprites in their chariots white. 

Descend to earth like an army of light. 

They pitch their tents on the steep mountain's side. 

In vales beneath, where the pure streamlets glide, — 

They rest content in the tops of the trees, 

And fearlessly sport day and night with the breeze. 

Like knights in ermine with glistening spears. 

They sally forth when the storm-king appears. 

And scale high walls, standing never aloof. 

But post their sentries on casement and roof; 

Their countless hosts in battalions press on, 

So fast that triumph is sure to be won. 



66 THEBETTEELAXD. 

And paeans loud are then borne by the gale. 

O'er white-crowned turrets, — through each lonely vale, 

Through forests dark to the wild-rolling sea, 

To plunge in the mists of immensity. 

They reign supreme in the shadow's of night, 

And safely roam by the moon's silvery light ; 

"With sandals light, over meadow and hill, 

And dance with glee o'er the ice-fettered riU. 

With downy crests, with the wind for their steed, 

They ride unharmed where their fancy may lead, 

Approaching slowly where bright fires gleam, 

To pass away as a beautiful dream. 

With fingers soft, they oft play with our hair, 

Departing soon, ere we know they are there, 

And try in glee to provoke a bright smile, 

While dancing close to our eyelids the while. 

Untamed and free they oft dare to sip 

iSTectarian sweets fi'om the pure ruby lip 

Of maidens fair, who would blush to bestow 

A sift so freelv to others we know : 

But caught at last, they do penance in tears, 

And vanish soon as the birth of their fears. 

With purest lips they kiss the blue stream. 

Then melt away in a sweet dewy dream. 

And slumber on, wishing never to rise, 

Till silent, unseen, they ascend to the skies. 



THE BETTER LAXD, 

There is a land, a better land, 

Beyond this earthly scene, 
Whose shores we eager long to see. 

Though dark waves roll between. 



THE BETTER LAND. 67 

We wish to view those flowery banks, 

Washed by the living stream, 
And gaze upon those wondrous things, 

Unknown to fancy's dream. 

We wish to breathe the bahny air. 

With fragrance e'er replete, 
And see the crystal dew-drops fall 

Like diamonds at our feet ; ' 

We long to gaze the landscape o'er, 

All spangled with pure gems, 
And pluck the blushing roses there, 

Without their thorny stems. 

We long to hear those heavenly strains 

The angels love to sing, 
To which the golden harps are made 

Their sweetest notes to bring. 
Most gladly would we lend an ear 

To the eternal song, 
And join to swell the chorus loud. 

With all the ransomed throng. 



o 



No sickness, pain, nor death shall there 

Our ceaseless pleasures mar. 
For sin shall be forever kept 

With all its ills afar. 
Unfading beauty then shall press 

Her signet on each brow, 
And blooming health no more decay 

Like fragile flowers, as now. 

We long to pluck the precious fruit 

From the blest tree of life. 
Whose wondrous leaves forever heal 

The nations of their strife ; 



68 THE BETTER LAND. 

We then shall feast on angels' food, 

And have them for our guests, 
For in that glorious world of light 

The curse no longer rests. 

All tears shall then be wiped away, 

Their fountain shall be dry, 
And ne'er in secret shall be known 

The burden of a sigh ; 
All doubts and gloomy thoughts shall flee 

Like leaves before the wind, 
Nor leave the faintest shadow there. 

To cloud a peaceful mind. 

Unequalled glories there shall pass 

Before our constant view, 
Which shall our senses never tire, 

Because forever new ; 
Each beauteous prospect shall conspire 

To give us fresh delight ; 
Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, 

One half the blissful sight. 

We lono; to o-aze on the new earth, — 

That promised " better land," — 
And with immortal honors blest. 

Amid its wonders stand. 
Then let me end my journey here. 

And with rejoicing come 
To claim my birthright in that world, — 

My glorious heavenly home. 



COME TO THE WOODS. 69 



COME TO THE WOODS. 

Come with me to tlie fragrant woods 

When skies are bright and fair, 
And, in the depths of their solitudes, 

Forget thy toils and care. 

Come stand with me 'neath the whispering pine, 

And gather sweet leaves of fern. 
And on the hillocks of green recline, 

And drink from Nature's urn. 

Come list with me to the wild bird's notes, 

As to his mate he calls, 
While silvery music in silence floats, 

As if in echoing halls. 

Sit near the bank of the rippling stream, 

Which gayly glides along, 
Where golden rays of warm sunshine gleam, 

And dance to the wavelet's song. 

Inhale the cooling and perfumed air 

Within the mossy dell, 
Where flowerets nestle contented there, 

Their own sweet words to tell. 

Commune with Nature, and humbly bow 

Beneath this leafy dome, 
And hear the voices she utters now. 

Before thy footsteps roam. 

God speaketh by the whispering leaf, 

And in the laughing rill, — 
In perfumes which bright flowers bequeath. 

And silently distil. 



70 THE MORNING SHOWER. 

A " still, small voice " is most plainly heard 

Within a forest bower, 
Which holy feelings of joy can stir, 

By their transforming power. 

Let all behold the proofs of love, 

With warmest gratitude, 
And view the hand which can lead above, 

E'en in deep solitude. 



THE MORNING SHOWER. 

Once more the burning eye of day 
Peeps through the gates of morn, 

While lurid beams of mellow light 
The lowering skies adorn. 

No joyous songs of tuneful birds 

Come from the silent woods. 
And cooling winds fold up their wings, 

In deepest solitudes. 

No breath disturbs the hanging vines, 

Nor stirs the bending grain ; 
And drooping flowerets sadly pine 

For cool, refreshing rain. 

The murmuring streams, with plaintive strains, 

The general burden share, — 
All nature seems in silence hushed, 

As if in sacred prayer. 



THE MORNING SHOWER. 71 



The stillness breaks, — the fluttering leaves 

Proclaim the signs of rain, 
And whisper from the topmost boughs 

The welcome news again. 

The burdened clouds, with generous hand, 

Unlock their treasures fast, 
And thirsty earth, with parching lips, 

Receives the boon at last. 

Then smiles with dewy sparkling eye 

Fair children of the wood. 
And dripping lilies bow their heads 

With tears of gratitude. 

Bright, sunny skies smile lovingly 

O'er all the meadows green. 
And dimpled brooks and laughing rills 

Rejoice to grace the scene. 

The emerald twigs are thickly strung 

With beads of silver light, 
In which a thousand rainbows blend, 

And cheer the wondering sight. 

Sweet odors from the spicy groves 
Pervade the cool, soft air, — 

An offering sweet from thousand lips, 
Which breathe pure praises there. 

So, when dark clouds of sorrow hide 
Life's fairest, sunniest skies, — 

When gloomy scenes on every hand 
Thy burdened soul apprise ; 



*'I PITT YOU. 

Let faith, beyond the darksome veil, 

Behold the hand divine, 
Which, thus concealed, but comes more near 

To make choice blessinors thine. 



-I PITY YOU." 

" I PITT you ! " O the sweet, kindlv word, 
"Which I in the depths of my great sorrow heard. 

One weary day ; 
It feU on my heart like the whisperings of peace, 
Whose echoing notes will not speedily cease, 

Nor fede away. 

Were I estranged from my beautiful home, 
Where affectionate words could not speedily come 

To cheer my heart ; 
How would such accents, in sweet, quiet dreams. 
Dropped on my ear, like bright golden beams. 

Bid grief depart 

'T was a token of friendship, both cheering and good. 
To comfort the feeble in deep solitude, 

AVhen all alone : 
Like sweet music vibrating on memon's ear, 
It will cheer me in sadness, when trials are near, 

AVhen friends have jrone. 



THE LAST GOOD-BT. 73 



THE LAST GOOD-BY. 

When cherished friends beside us stand, 
And warmly grasp the parting hand, 
With trembling voice and tearful eye, 
We scarce can speak the last " Good-by.' 

What grief and sadness fill the heart, 
When with true friends we have to part, 
A vacancy, so lone and drear, 
Can but provoke the sorrowing tear. 

The last few hours, though far the best, 
Thus soon embitter all the rest ; 
The cup we thought so full of joy 
Has yet some dregs, some base alloy. 

Though absent, thy fond name will be 
Held long in generous memory ; 
Each friendly act, though e'er so small, 
WiU dearest feelings oft recall. 

As roses smile in tinted bloom, 
To charm the air with sweet perfume. 
E'en while we all their beauties view. 
The thorn intrudes, a partner too. 

So in this desecrated earth, 
Where ills like enemies have birth. 
In its gay scenes we long may share, 
But sin lies hid to sting us there. 



THE LAST GOOD-BY. 

There is a Trorld forever bright, 
Where pleasures bloom in holy light, 
Which never with their fragrance bring 
Sad ills at last, like thorns to sting. 

There is a land, where fadeless flowers, 
Perpetual gi'ow in sacred bowers, 
"Whose charms forever give delight. 
With naught combined to grieve the sight. 

There is a home, where angel choirs 
Attune their songs to golden lyres, — 
Where discord's hand has ne'er been given 
To rudely sweep the keys of heaven. 

There all is perfect, pure, and free 
All good to seize, no ill to flee ; 
And every scene new joys shall bring, 
To make the heart for gladness sing. 

There friendship's sweetest bond shall reign 
Supreme through all the happy train, 
And every voice accord to swell 
The praises of Immanuel. 

There friends who love may meet again 
Beyond the reach of grief and pain, 
No parting tears shall dim the eye. 
Nor there be heard the last •• Good-by." 



TO A FRIEND. 75 



TO A FRIEND. 

Unwearied, may peace like a heavenly dove, 
E'er close to thy heart fold its white wings of love, 
Permitting no evil the treasure to gain, 
Enshrined as a jewel, and free from all stain. 

May thy graces shine forth for the world to behold, 
Like gems fitly set in a casket of gold, 
More precious, however, more lasting than they, 
Revealing their beauties more plainly each day. 

May blessings from heaven most freely descend, 
Like angels' blest visits thy steps to attend. 
Besprinkling thy pathway with incense and flowers, 
Delighting thy heart through youth's halycon hours. 

As the rainbow's tints with their sevenfold ray, 
Unitedly blend in one gorgeous array, 
Even so undivided, so blest to the view. 
May good deeds appear, pure and lovely in you. 

The hand of affection shall gladly entwine 
A wreath for thy brow that with honor shall shine. 
Which the olive and myrtle shall blush to behold, 
As its glories more constant and fadeless unfold. 

As the stars peep so calmly through curtains of night, 
Lest their beauty should dazzle with glory too bright, 
So may all your actions of kindness and love 
As silently bless as their types shine above. 



tb TO A FRIEND. 

As the ilaisios recline on their jrreen, mossy bed, 
And modestly sniiK' on the dews which they shed, 
As the violets nod on their silvery sheen, 
So centlc with eraec mav vour ways e'er be seen. 

May the fountain of wisdom spring forth to thy view, 
And boar on its bosom pure blessings for you, 
Enrichini; thy treasures with jewels more rare 
Than rubies and pearls howe'cr costly and fair. 

Should trials thy heart -vWth sadness appall, 

And the mantle of grief on thy spirit e'er fall, 

Mav the bright bow of ])romisc soon gladden thy sky, 

And the ilay brighter shine wlnu the night has passed by. 

When youth's roses shall lade, and thy strength shall decline. 
As quickly are numbered the brief sands of time ; ^ 

May thy heart then rejoice at the prospect of rest, 
AVhcre evils come not, and the righteous arc blest. 

Should scenes of temptation invite thy delay. 
As homeward with patience you journey each day, 
Then gaze on that star, ever radiant with love, 
AVhich will on thy pilgrimage guide thee above. 

Press on to thv iroal, for thv crown is in sijrht. 
Already it sparkles Avith celestial light, 
Blest anijels are waitincr, with welcome to greet 
Thy joyous arrival, where bliss is complete. 



SUMMER WINDS. 77 



SUMMER WINDS. 

Blow on, ye summer breezes, blow, 

And bring your tribute near, 
Which noiseless lips from flowerets kissed, 

In sunshine warm and clear ; 
From laughing rills and pleasant vales. 

Where silvery echoes play, 
A cooling freshness bring to me. 

To cheer each weary day. 

O, bear to me an offering sweet. 

Which distant meads withhold. 
Which hath a secret power to please 

The youthful and the old. 
From dripping leaves and beaded stems. 

From petals fair and bright. 
Convey the gifts each would resign, 

To cheer my lonely night. 

From spotless lilies floating wide 

Upon their native stream, 
Whose fairy forms in azure set. 

Like snowy cloudlets seem, — 
Give me the perfumed words they breathe 

Of purity and love, 
Wlien sunny skies serenely fair 

Smile tranquilly above. 

O, bear to me the gladsome songs 

Of birdlings blithe and gay, 
Who wake to hail, in chorus sweet. 

The opening gates of day ; 
6 



78 TOSUSIE. 

When murmuring woodlands, lawn, and stream 

Join in the general strain, 
And joy with welcome smiles to greet '' 

Day's golden car again. 

Then still blow on, ye breezes fair, 

And health and joy impart ! 
Dispense your bounties wide and far, 

And cheer each lonely heart ! 
May summer winds, and birds, and flowers 

Proclaim the love and care 
Of Him who graciously bestows 

His blessings everywhere. 



TO SUSIE. 

Another new year has now dawned on thy life : 
May its memories know neither sorrow nor strife ; 
May no tears fill thy chahce, of sadness or pain. 
But blessings be numbered again and again. 

May thy heart, like a rose-bud expanding and free, 
E'er drink of the dews which are treasured for thee, 
Of peace and of pleasure, of quiet and joy. 
Which no hand can remove, which no foe can destroy. 

May thy lips speak of wisdom, and goodness, and truth, 
Which like pearls ever sparkle through bright scenes of youth; 
May thy sceptre be chosen in meekness and love. 
And thy gifts be as manna bestowed fi-om above. 

May thy smiles, like a rose-tinted morning in May, 
Soon scatter all cloudlets of sorrow away ; 
May no mists of despondency veil thy bright sky, 
But visions of beauty e'er beam from on high. 



ON THE DEATH OF AN AGED PILGRIM. 79 

On thy brow may contentment in majesty rest, 
Thus showing thee happy, and joyous, and blest ; 
May the light in thine eye show the true light within, 
Springing up from its fountain new praises to win. 

Then peaceful and prosperous shall all thy bright days 
Pass smoothly along, with their meed full of praise ; 
Each year, as it adds to thy life's golden chain. 
Shall number thy pearls of rejoicing again. 

May angels attend thee by night and by day, 

To guide thee aright lest thy footsteps should stray ; 

Look upward ! press onward toward the land of sweet rest, — 

That beautiful home where the righteous are blest ! 



ON THE DEATH OF AN AGED PILGRIM. 

How precious is the death of those 
Who gladly take their last repose. 
As fearless as a child may rest 
Upon a loving mother's breast. 
Confiding in their Saviour's power 
To wake them at the promised hour. 
To " sleep in Jesus," — blessed thought ! 
O, what has grace for sinners wrought ! 
Deliverance from earth's dreaded foe, — 
Redemption from all sin below, — 
A glorious hope of bliss to come, — 
The " earnest " of our better home, — 
A constant peace within the breast. 
When by affliction's hand distrest, — 
A quiet rest from toil and care, — 
A glorious crown in heaven to wear. 



80 ox THE DEATH OF AX AGED PILGRIM, 

How peaceful is tlie closing day 
Of aged saints, wlio pass away, 

Forsaking all the ills of earth, 

"Where tears and sorrows have their birth, — 

"Who joy to reach the heavenly shore, 

To greet the loved ones gone before, 

"With them and angels loud to swell 

The praises of Immanuel. 

How sweet to know the absent one 

The narrow way so long had run ; 

Amid the varied scenes of life, 

Amid its toils, its cares, its strife, 

Had kept fair Bethlehem's star in sight, 

That surest guide by day or night ; 

Still journeying on from day to day, 

Eejoicing in her hope alway. 

And dropping gems of precious truth, 

To please the old, to charm the youth, 

Showing the path they ought to tread, 

By following Christ, the Living Head. 

How sweet the memory of the blest, 
TTho thus so surely find their rest, 
Rejoicing in those gifts of love 
Descending from the throne above, 
Pai-taking of that heavenly joy. 
Unmixed with any base alloy. 
And drinking from life's fountain pure, 
"Which will unfailing bhss secure. 
How kind their many deeds of love, 
Still treasured up for her above. 
As briEiants in her dazzling crown, 
"Which on earth's diadems might frown, 
"Whose bright example while below, 
Like flowers, still bloom where'er we go. 
And }-ield a perfume rare and sweet, 
"With every charm and grace replete. 



ON THE DEATH OF AN AGED PILGKIM. 81 

To cheer us on our homeward way, 
While in earth's thorny paths we stay. 

How pleasant on some evening hour, 
When darkness round our tents may lower, 
In pensive sadness, calm, and still. 
When prayers rich blessings pure distil, 
To think of every kindly word 
Which we have in her presence heard : 
And then with grateful joy recall 
Those counsels, which once used to fall 
Like precious fruit, both rich and sweet, 
From her dear lips, — a blessing meet, — 
Which kept us in the way of truth. 
While in the slippery paths of youth, — 
Which cheered us in maturer years, 
And sweetly calmed our saddest fears. 

That welcome smile we used to see, 
Like blessed sunshine, warm and free, 
Which banished our young griefs away, 
And bade our tears no longer stay. 
We cherish for its charming power. 
Which oft beguiled a pensive hour, 
And even now, in our deep grief. 
Its memory gives us some relief, 
Illuminating the dark clouds. 
Which our sad hearts with sorrow shrouds. 
Well we recall the joy she took 
In reading from that Holy Book, 
Which speaks of life beyond the tomb. 
And robs the grave of all its gloom, — 
Which cheers the pilgrim travelling home. 
Where age and sickness never come ; 
And how she claimed each promise rare, 
And feasted on rich treasures there, 



82 3IT FIE ST EOSE-BTD. 

"WTiicli often cheered her burdened heart 
And bid despondmg thoughts depart. 

Though no^ re sorrow, jet rejoice 

That she had made the wiser choice, — 

That she had sought her portion where 

Can come no pain, no fears, no care, — 

Xo more with secret grief to mourn. 

Her loving heart with anguish torn, — 

!N'o more to weep at Zion's gate. 

That there so few chose their estate, 

But free from exery earthlv stain. 

On Canaan's ground she long will reign. 

Ye sorrow now, yet not in vain. 

The '■ dead in Christ " shall lire again ; 

Xor shall their dust forgotten he, 

TV'hen Jesus from the rending sky, 

"With the celestial host, shall come 

To call his faithful children home : 

"With immortahty put on. 

The grave despised, the victory won. 

Like angels made, no more to die, 

Their conquering shouts shall rise on high. 



MY FIEST ROSE-BUD. 

Beautiful, most beautiful, 

Bud of hope and promise, too. 
With its new-bom colors fair. 

Sparkling with the crystal dew ; 
And those fragrant leaflets rare 

Show that friendship chose them well. 
Guarding thus my fairy queen, 

Like a prisoner in its cell. 



MY FIRST ROSE-BUD. 83 

My first rose-bud, fresh and fair, 

Harbinger of early spring, 
Tenderest thoughts and sympathies 

Now to me you gladly bring. 
On your tiny petals bright 

Kindly words I know are found, 
Which I quiet list to hear, 

Though there comes no voice nor sound. 

Words may charm the outward ear. 

Bidding sorrow soon depart. 
Bringing joy and gladness oft 

To a lonely, weary heart ; 
But briojht flowerets — " ang-el's thoughts " — 

Speak of peace, and truth, and love. 
Giving to the burdened soul 

Purest blessings from above. 

When long hours of pain are mine, 

Passed in solitude and gloom, 
Then sweet roses gemmed with dew 

Shall bring sunshine to my room. 
Then I '11 think, while lone and stiU, 

I am not by all forgot, 
While is found one tiny bud, 

Or one bright " forget-me-not." 

Yes, my thoughts shall be of those 

Who would their rare pets resign, 
Parting with their cherished gifts, 

Gladly thus to make them mine ; 
And their whispers soft I '11 list, 

Meant for mine own ear alone. 
And delicious fragrance breathe. 

As an oJEFering all their own. 



84 "as rain upon the mown grass.' 



LINES. 

Should darkness o'er thy pathway spread, 
And threatening clouds hang o'er thy head, 
And trials cause thy heart to mourn, 
By deepest sufferings keenly torn ; 
Then look above, where skies are bright, 
Though gloom may intercept the hght, 
The sun still shines, though hid from view, 
And prayer will let the glory through. 

♦ 
For rarest gems most care we show, 
On them most friction we bestow, 
To find their beauty and their worth, 
Hid 'neath their surface at their birth ; 
So tears and pains, and toils and care 
Are the rough sands oft used to wear 
The coarseness from our rougher part. 
To show a jewel in the heart. 



"AS EAIN UPON THE MOWN GRASS." 

As on the fragrant new-mown sfrass 

Descends the summer rain. 
Which bids the drooping flowei-s revive, 

And smile with joy again ; 
So may thy spu'it on our hearts 

Like gentle dews distil. 
Imparting to us needed grace 

Our mission to fulfil. 



THAT FRIENDLY GOOD-NIGHT. 85 

May ligtt and joy and peace be ours, 

Descending from above, 
Those blessed gifts wbicli God doth send 

As tokens of his love ; 
May their sweet influence give us cheer. 

When sunshine fades away, 
And bring unto our burdened souls 

The gleams of heavenly day. 



THAT FEIENDLY GOOD-NIGHT, 

O YES, how I miss that most friendly good-night, 
From the lips of one always so dear : 

It bathed my sad spirits with soothing delight, 
As the wish fell distinct on my ear : 

That friendly '■'■good night ! " 
Its echo I still love to hear. 

How sweet was the accent so constantly heard, 

Conveying best wishes sincere. 
How cheering, how welcome was each kindly word, 

As I eagerly listened to hear : 
That friendly " good night ! " 

How pleasing those words now appear. 

As music comes warbling across the green lea, 

Or dancing quick over the spray, 
So sweet was each note on its errand from thee. 

To banish the cares of the day : 
That friendly " good night ! " 

May its melody longer delay. 



.86 THAT FRIENDLY GOOD-XIGHT. 

That friendlv good-night I -what a charm it possessed, 

So simple. Vet magic its po"u-er ; 
How gladly the wearv, soon sweetly at rest, 

Was lost to a lone -vrakeM hour : 
That friendly " good night " 

TTas grateful as dews to the flower. 

That friendly '•^ good night I " O. I miss it e'en now, 
From a friend who was eyer so dear ; 

TVTien pain and anxieties troubled my brow, 
Another " o-ood-night "' I now hear : 

That friendly ''good night ! " 
Its memory wakens a tear. 

" "\Mien gloomy, discouraged, forsaken by all, 
That yoice always cheerful and kind, 
Xe'er cheers a dark moment, from grief ne'er recalls 
A sad and disconsolate mind : 

That friendly '-good night ! " 
Its equal I hardly shall find. 

"When absent from fi-iends. where rich bounties were 
sti'own 
Like flowers to cheer a lone way, — 
"Where the yoice of affection and kindness alone 
Was ready to solace each day : 

That friendly ''good night" 
Xo more crowns the last toils of the day. 

O yes, how I miss that expected " good night," 
When the cares of the day are all o'er I 

E'en now it would fill me with pleasing delight, 

Could I hear those sweet tones but once more : 

That friendly ''good night ! " 
Its absence I long must deplore. 



THE muse's response. 87 



THE MUSE'S RESPONSE. 

Yes, that friendly " good niglit " shall be most truly thine, 

Truly thine, 
If thou wilt but receive it from lips such as mine ; 
And the warmest of feelings can spring from the hearty 
To bid every cloudlet of sorrow depart, 

From a soul like thine. 

Yes, that friendly " good night " shall be constantly thine, 

Truly thine. 
If thou wilt but make it of friendship the sign, 
And its echoings may in deep stillness be heard. 
Like the fluttering wings of some pet little bird. 

In a heart like thine. 

A heartfelt " good night " has a sweet, charming power 

^Vhen shadows lower, 
Like the perfumed breath of a blushing flower ; 
And can lead one into the land of dreams, 
Where is beauty resplendent with love's pure beams, 

At midnight hour. 

Yes, a most friendly '■'' good night" shall be freely thine own, 

Freely thine own. 
If thou wilt but claim it with pleasure alone ; 
It may lead thee while roaming in some blissful scene, 
To view the kind hand which would lead thee, I ween. 

When his work is done. 

And when in the stillness of some distant hour. 

At twilight hour. 
You muse on the beauty of some drooping flower, 
Perhaps you may think of the weary, away, 
Who whispered " good night " at the close of each day 

In friendship's bower. 



i 

88 THAT GENTLE VOICE. 



THAT GENTLE VOICE. 

A MUSIC comes at eventide, 

On fragrant zephyrs borne, 
Most welcome to tlie lonely heart, 

Oft by afflictions torn ; 
So grateful comes that gentle voice, 

Which oft my sadness quells, 
With mellow accents soft and sweet, 

Like chimes from silver bells. 

That gentle voice has power to soothe, 

When anxious thoughts arise, 
Like secret foes to mar our peace. 

And dim life's sunniest skies ; 
Like sunshine on the summer cloud 

Their shadows briefly last; 
A few bright jewels only dropped 

As tribute to the past. 

When weary hours, in ceaseless pain, 

Make up the sufferer's lot, — 
When earth's fair scenes can no more yield 

One bright forget-me-not, — 
How sweet amid surrounding gloom 

To hear one soothing word. 
Which kindest sympathies reveals 

From hearts with pity stirred! 

Good angels come, at evening hour. 

When weary mortals rest. 
And whisper things in visions bright. 

Which make their lives more blest ; 



THAT GENTLE VOICE. 89 

But I can hear, much oftener far, 

These messengers of light, 
And list their heavenly words to cheer, — 

My day is changed to night. 

Good spirits may not always come 

In garments softly white, 
Or make their blessed tidings known 

When stars are beaming bright ; 
They oftener come in humbler forms, — 

In deeds of love, — in flowers, — 
In welcome gifts, in quiet tones. 

To cheer the weary hours. 

Let me but hear some kindly words 

From loving hearts and true. 
Then all my days on earth are blest, 

Though chosen friends are few ; 
Let me but hear a cheering voice, 

Which no sad tidings brings, — 
Which speaks in accents soft and sweet 

Of pure and holy things. 

Let me but know that flowerets bloom 

Around my pathway still. 
Which breathe of purity and truth. 

And God's most righteous will, — 
Though shadows then may thickly lower 

Around my tent each day, — 
A glorious future, far more bright, 

Shall chase my night away. 



90 ON THE DEATH OF E G- 



ON THE DEATH OF MRS. E G- 

How oft our friends are snatched away, 
Just when we most would have them stay ; 
When round our hearts they firmly twine 
Those precious bonds we ne'er resign, — 
Which bind the good, the pure, the true 
With love's bright chain, forever new. 
Like flowers of the fairest bloom. 
They die to yield their best perfume. 
And leave a tribute choice and sweet. 
With fondest memories e'er replete ; 
Their virtues then, like stars of night. 
Shine forth in gloom with holy light. 

How much we miss each sunny smile, 
Which would our saddest thoughts beguile, 
And those loved tones, which cheered our grief, 
And gave our burdened souls relief. 
How much we miss that friendly hand, 
"UTiich welcomed us to love's own band, — 
Which plucked the thorn from our rough way. 
And strewed the flowers of peace each day ; 
How much we miss her gentle voice. 
Which e'er approved our wiser choice ; 
Who heavenly counsels joyed to bring, 
To make our hearts for gladness sing, — 
Who dropped the words of truth and love. 
To guide our feet to realms above. 

How sweet to know that those who sleep 
In Christ, himself will keep. 
As in a precious casket fair, — 
His chosen ones, — his jewels rare, 



ON THE DEATH OF E G . 91 

And bring tliem from the silent tomb, 
To reign as victors o'er its gloom, 
When earth renewed, once more shall be. 
From every stain and blemish free ; 
When nature finds its sweet release. 
To welcome Christ, the Prince of Peace. 

How sweet the memory of the blest, 
Who, free from care, are now at rest, — 
No more disturbed by sin or pain, 
No more to know earth's toils again. 
No more to shed the sorrowing tear. 
Or part with friends most truly dear, — 
No more to mourn in secret grief 
For whom they cannot bring relief, — 
No more to bear within their breast 
The bm-dens of those long distrest, — 
No more to mourn for friends who stay 
From Zion's band, content, away ; 
But, free from every earthly ill. 
Their names are held in memory still, 
By One who ne'er forgets His fold, 
Till Truth shall fail, and Time grows old. 

Still love to think of her now gone ; 
Though weeping, feel not quite alone, 
For others mourn in sadness too 
For one they held so good and true, — 
Who ne'er forget her deeds of love. 
Still treasured up for her above ; 
Not quite alone, for One is known. 
Who makes our bitterest griefs His own ; 
Who, though He wounds, will kindly heal," 
And also his own love reveal. 
Who bids us seek our rest above. 
And all His wondrous goodness prove. 



92 THE rose-bud's lament, 

Then look to Him in joy or grief, 
For there is found a sure relief, — 
Sweet consolations for the soul. 
Which ■mil hke Hving fountains roll. 
Proceeding from the throne above, — 
The source of lisrht and truth and love. 



THE EOSE-BUD'S LAMENT, 

A LITTLE rose-bud, fresh and fair, 
Watched daily ynth most tender care, 
Above the garden's common store, 
Because more rare, was prized the more ; 
Yet one kind heart, who plainly knew 
No lovelier flower sweeter grew, 
Has claimed it as pure fiiendship's sign, 
. Rejoicing thus to m£ike it mine. 

When first you saw its tiny leaves 
Expand to greet the summer breeze, 
You welcomed it with many a smile, 
And showed it all your friends the while ; 
And as it daily larger gi'ew. 
Your joy increased in measure too ; 
Thus well I know the price you set 
Upon your little charming pet. 

So welcome in its native pride 

At rest with leaflets by its side. 

Just peeping fi'om its mossy bed. 

With fragrant petals wide outspread, 

A shame it was to treat it so I 

And let your cherished favorite go, — 

To banish it so far away. 

In dreary bondage long to stay. 



THE rose-bud's LAMENT. 93 

Methought I saw some dewy tears, 

As it revealed its secret fears, 

Complaining of its destined lot. 

So very soon to be forgot ; 

With words like these, it bowed its head, 

As if all happiness had fled, 

And murmured such a plaintive tone, 

I ahnost made its grief my own. 

" Rejoicing in my pleasant home, 

I thought no darksome cloud would come, 

To cast a shadow o'er life's sky, 

Or cause one deep, desponding sigh. 

But now, alas ! when I would be 

More prized, more fondly loved by thee. 

My dreams of peace have well-nigh flown. 

And I am left to mourn alone. 

" Beside the casement, day by day, 
I welcomed morn's first orient ray. 
And gave it here a dwelling-place. 
Upon my pure and spotless face ; 
But now, forsaken, sad, and lone. 
My fondest hopes are almost gone ; 
I mourn in silence, like a dove 
Which has no tender mate to love. 

" How hard my lot, when day by day 
I saw your smiles, and heard you say 
Most pleasant things in accents clear, 
Which I, so modest, blushed to hear ; 
To be, while long your chosen pride, 
And e'er content when by your side, 
Held captive in this cheerless gloom. 
Where silence reigns e'en like the tomb. 
7 



94 THE rose-bud's lament. 

" My loveliness cannot appear 
Witliin this darksome place so drear ; 
For tears I weep my perfume fast, 
My beauty will not longer last, 
My grace and strength must soon decay, 
Like vapor in the noontide ray ; 
Erelong my name will only be 
Eecorded in kind memory. 

" O, were you false in all your praise, 
Which was to me as sweetest lays. 
Or were you like some maidens true, 
In spite of all they say or do, — 
And did you show your love more plain. 
Against which I would not complain, 
In choosing me, because the best, 
To cheer the heart of one distressed ? 

" Were such the case, I am resigned ; 
In doing good some joy I find ; 
My grace will not be quite forgot, 
Like flowerets in some desert spot ; 
My mission I wiU yet fulfil, 
And breathe out odors sweeter still ; 
And though I prize the sunshine most, 
Will die a martyr at my post. 

" In softest whispers I will tell 
Those things your heart approveth well. 
Which shall like bahn give joy and peace. 
And cause the soul from sadness cease, — 
Will tell of realms beyond the tomb. 
Where lovelier flowers perennial bloom. 
Which yield their treasures all may share, 
To which on earth can naught compare. 



A FAREWELL TO GERTRUDE. 95 

" I then will tell wliat bliss is found, 
On that enchanted holy ground, 
Where weary pilgrims find a home, — 
Where pains and trials never come. 
Such consolation would I show 
To those who pine for rest below ; 
And as my drooping petals fall, 
Would whisper. Peace ! to crown it all." 



A FAREWELL TO GERTRUDE 

How sad to take the parting hand, 

And speak the last farewell. 
When burdened feelings must reveal 

What lips refuse to tell. 
Ah ! sad indeed the last kind words 

Fall on the listening ear. 
They wake a mournful echo there. 

Whose accents still I hear. 

In dismal solitude I watch. 

Each weary hour alone. 
And in the stillness long to hear 

But one refreshing tone. 
From memory's page I often read 

Thy deeds of kindness o'er, 
But list in vain, through weary hours, 

To hear thy voice once more. 

A vacancy steals through the gloom, 

Throughout the livelong day. 
As if a bird its nest had left, 

For woodlands far away, — 



96 A FAEEWELL TO GEETKUDE. 

"Wliere orange-groves and fragrant flowers 
Can charm each happv hour, — 

"Where shadows ne'er oppress the mind, 
Xor clouds of sorrow lower, — 

TVTiere loving friends and generous hearts 

In expectation wait, 
To hear thy gladsome song again, 

As for a dove its mate. — 
Where in content and happiness. 

Far in a simny clime. 
You e'en can wear those garlands fair 

Friendship alone can twine. 

There will my thoughts miseen, unknown, 

On swiftest pinions soar, 
And hiunbly dare commune with thee 

Within thy cottage door, — 
^ Where e'en, unbidden, I will stay, 

And in my fancy roam, 
For where such noble hearts abide 

I long should find a home. 

Whose words of kindly sympathy 

Oft stir the sufferer's breast. — 
They charm the bitter cup of pain, 

And make his joys more blest. 
Each gentle tone seems then to come 

On a pure angel's wing. 
Whose trembling pinions in my heart 

Eepeat their echoing. 

Upon tliy heart may dews distil 
From the pure foimt of Love, 

With holiest blessings e'er replete 
Which crown the good above ; 



THE OLD ELM. 97 

And when life's silver cord is loosed, 

When earthly ties shall cease, 
May you, within the pearly gates, 

Find blest, eternal peace. 



THE OLD ELM.* 

I LOVE the old elm in the orchard, 

Which slopes to the edge of the stream, 
Where, with all the fresh spirits of boyhood, 

I passed through life's sunniest dream ; 
Its boughs towered high in their grandeur. 

Far up in the fair azure sky. 
Where songsters might nestle their birdlings, 

And mischief could never come nigh. 

Its roots once most firmly imbedded, 

Were washed by the oft-flowing tide 
Which told to all sorrowing school-boys. 

That it might not much longer abide. 
We made of its long-running fibres 

Some faiiy-like baskets at will. 
Which earned such acceptable praises. 

As if wrought with magical skill. 

I think of the well-chosen hollow, 
In the clean grassy-carpeted ground. 

Where caps filled with apples were carried. 
And desserts for evening were found, — 

* That graceful elm which formerly adorned the premises of the 
late Nathaniel Adams, Esq., was removed, in 1844, to make room for 
the modern improvements in that locality. 



98 THE OLD ELZM. 

When crathered in circles most fiiendlr, 

And coser as birds in a nest, 
We listened to tales oft repeated, 

Exciting each juvenile breast. 

How often those tales, which in childhood* 

Are mentioned as fanciful things. 
Are found in life's warfare more truthful, 

In facts which experience brings ; — 
How oft are those bright sunny mornings, 

When shadows as strangers are known, 
Exchanged for those lone, cheerless evenings, 

When noon into twHicrht has OTOwn. 

Yes, youth has its charms and its pleasures, 

And manhood its joys and its fears, 
Both leaving on memory's tablet 

The well- written record of years. 
And whUe through life's garden we ramble 

To gather once more its bright flowers, 
How often each scene then reminds us 

Of some of our happiest hours. 

The elm with its grandeur has fallen, 

A vestige no longer remains ; 
The birds have all ceased in its branches 

To sing their melodious strains ; 
And the boys who once played in its shadow 

Are scattered wide over the earth. 
Bereft of those gay, buoyant feelings 

Which innocent childhood gave birth. 

Although both the elm and the orchard 
Have passed long ago from our sight, 

And the hum of the unwearied steam-mill 
Is heard oft by day and by night, 



THE HOME OF ANGELS. 99 

Still round that old spot there yet clusters 

Bright visions of scenes that are past, 
And a savor of freshness and gladness, 

Which will ever in memory last. 



THE HOME OF ANGELS. 

I LONG to see that blessed home, — 

That promised world of light, 
Where heavenly beauties always new 

E'er greet the wondering sight. 
I long to view those grottos fair, 

Where angel footsteps tread. 
Where fadeless flowerets sweetly bloom, 

And glory shines o'erhead. 

Sweet music struck from golden lyres, 

There charms the listening ear. 
With magic tones, so soft and pure, 

That seraphs pause to hear ; 
While holy anthems such as earth 

Would joy but once to hear. 
Oft echo through their bright domain 

In strains forever dear. 

Sweet fragrance lingers on the air, — 

The offering of flowers. 
Which freely bloom with lovelier hues 

Than grace earth's fairest bowers ; 
While gorgeous shades, which softly blend 

As in a rainbow fair. 
Adorn the precious objects found 

In rich profusion there. 



100 SUNSHINE AND SHADOW. 

In mansions blest the angels star, 

Whose ■walls of jewelled light 
Reflect the glory aU so pure, 

That there is found no night ; 
But dav. eternal day, is known, 

Ko shadows lingering there ; 
2so gloomy signs of grief and pain, 

No vestige of despair. 

IN'o tears can there in secret fall, 

Xor hours of sadness come 
To desecrate, with silent power, 

The quiet of that home ; 
But joy, unfailing joy, there reigns 

Supreme in every breast, 
And peace with her sweet influence comes. 

And dwells a constant guest. 

There death can never loose those bonds, 

"Which bind true, faithiid hearts, 
For from that blooming paradise 

Sin with each ill departs. 
To see that home were joy indeed. 

So beautiful and bright, 
But there to live forevermore 

Were infinite deliofht. 



SUNSHINE AND SHADOW, 

In pleasant sunshine, warm and bright, 
Rich blessings come in golden light. 
And fill the heaii: with joy and peace. 
Too pure and holy soon to cease. 



SUNSHINE AND SHADOW. 101 

Like flowers scattered o'er our way, 
Whlcli oft invite a long delay, 
They bid us raise our thoughts above, 
To the best Source of purest love. 

When life's young sky is calm and fair ; 
And silver clouds lie floating there, — 
When cherished hopes inspire the breast. 
Which knows no fears nor sad unrest ; 
As dew-drops nestle in a rose, 
Enjoying there a sweet repose. 
E'en so the soul, content and blest 
'Mid sunny smiles, is soothed to rest. 

What though a cloud in flowery June 
Should yield its crystal waters soon, 
And cast a shadow o'er the sky 
Just when new glories shone on high ! 
They only make the scene more fair, * 
And show us brilliants sparkling there. 
Which, blending all in tints most pure, 
But make "the promise" still more sure. 

When prosperous days like sunshine bless, 
And cheer our souls with soft caress. 
Should lengthening shadows darkly come, 
Around our pleasant, joyous home, 
Causing our hearts with anguish mourn, . 
By deepest sufferings sadly torn ; 
^et even then bright stars are seen 
Emerging with their light serene. 

In deep affliction oft are found 
Bare gems of truth, though pains abound, 
Which only serve to loose the soil. 
Which else were broke with care and toil ; 



102 THE HEAVENLY COUNTRY. 

While livino; streams of Hgjlit and love, 
Akin to tlie blest fount above, 
Spring forth with consolation sure, 
Like priestly incense choice and pure. 

In solitude, unseen, unknown, 

How oft a weary soul has grown 

In heavenly grace, with patient smile, 

Though dews of grief fell fast the while. 

When trials oft a sad heart fill, 

The cup o'erflows with blessings stUI, 

While "ministering spirits" wait 

To point the way to Zion's gate. 

While homeward still our footsteps tend, 
May light and shade together blend, 
Uniting in one lustrous beam, 
In which God's special love is seen ; 
Then all within will grow more fair. 
No discontent abiding there ; 
Then all beyond be perfect peace, 
Where sorrow, sin, and shadows cease. 



THE HEAVENLY COUNTRY. 

There is a better coun^iy where 

My thoughts delight to tend, 
Where, saved from all earth's ills, I hope 

My future days to spend. 
My pilgrimage is almost o'er, — 

I think I almost see 
The pearly gates stand open wide, 

As if to welcome me. 



THE HEAVENLY COUNTRY. 103 

This heavenly country saints desired 

Who flourished long ago, 
Declaring " plainly " what they sought, 

Amid sad tears and woe. 
As " strangers" in a foreign land, 

Afar from friends and home, 
They wished the " night " would quickly end, — 

The promised " morning " come. 

By faith we view in that blest land, 

The dread, sad curse remove. 
And all dark shadows quickly flee 

Before the beams of love ; 
We see the earth more beauteous far, 

With flowery vales outspread, 
And hope its untold joys to share, 

With all the righteous dead. 

In that blest country naught shall harm, 

Nor cruel foes annoy, 
The lamb shall with the leopard play. 

The lion ne'er destroy. , 

A " little child " as safe shall be 

Amid the beasts of earth, 
As when protected by fond arms 

Which cradled him at birth. 

No blio-ht shall touch with secret stealth 

The fairest tinted flower. 
Unequalled beauty then shall bloom, 

Nor perish in an hour. 
Sweet fragrance from the opening bud 

Shall bless the air around. 
And every pleasure heart can wish 

Be in abundance found. 



104 THE HEAVENLY COUNTRY. 

No death — man's stern, relentless foe- 

Shall make our circles less, 
Nor bitter tears in silence fall, 

Because of deep distress ; 
No pain be felt, no sorrow known, 

Within that world of lis^lit, 
For health and beauty reign supreme, 

To crown each day's delight. 

That blessed country we would see, 

AVhere Christ shall reign as King^, 
To him our highest honors pay, — 

Our dearest offerings bring. 
At His own table we would wait, 

RecHning near his side, 
Where all who bear his signet shall 

As welcome guests abide. 

We long to see those glorious things 

o o o 

Long treasured up above, 
Excelling all we here most prize, 

Or ever here can love ; 
Then let us gaze on the 7ieiu earth. 

And stand upon its shore, 
AVith bodies ever " glorified," 

In peace forevermore. 



FUTURE GLOET. 105 



FUTURE GLORY. 

The earth may be shrouded in sadness and gloom, 
Like emblems of mourning which hang o'er the tomb, 
Yet all the confusion and turmoil so rife, 
Most plainly bespeak a quick end to its strife. 

Soon rulers must fall, and their pomp fade away, 
Like dew in the morn of a fair summer day. 
And empires crumble to ashes amain, 
No more to be crowned with their glory again. 

Then Christ's promised kingdom of joy and of peace 
Shall bring to his people their long-sought release, — 
Be 'stablished in glory, and ever maintain 
The bliss of its kingly and heavenly reign. 

Oppression and war shall then no more be known, 
But honor and riches alike will be shown 
To all who shall enter the portals of peace, 
When sin and its evils forever will cease. 

The troubles of earth will then no more annoy, 
Nor bondage and fear shall diminish our joy ; 
Each scene shall afford what we fondly desire. 
And Jesus's great love all our praises inspire. 

'Mid pastures of pleasantness, girded with streams, 
From fountains most sacred, where glory e'er beams, 
Our Shepherd will oft with his charge love to roam, 
Himself the dehght of that beautiful home. 



106 FUTURE GLORY. 

There all that is lovely and beauteous and fair, 
With all that is precious, angelic, and rare, 
Yea, all that can cheer and enrapture the heart. 
Will then all their charms and their virtues impart. 

A pain nor a sigh nor a sorrowful tear, 

Nor gloom., neither sadness shall ever appear, 

To grieve for a moment the pure ransomed throng, 

Rejoicing o'er death with the conqueror's song. 

No mind can conceive all that God will prepare 
For those who shall freely His promises share ; 
The bliss which shall all his dear children await, 
With naught can be measured, for naught is so great. 

Then all that is tranquil shall quickly convey 
Bright visions of beauty, no more to decay, 
And all that is glorious, ecstatic, sublime. 
Shall wreaths of unspeakable splendor entwine. 

If aught can be wished, then His love will provide, 
And our every want be most quickly supplied, 
For " all things are yours," and all then shall be given 
To those who have sought a blest mansion in heaven. 

A feast of rejoicing, unrivalled before 
Shall welcome each guest with its bountiful store ; 
While Jesus with honors and gifts of renown. 
Himself will delight all their pleasures to crown. 

The music of seraphs will gladden each heart. 
Who shall of their skill and their voices impart, 
To those who shall join in the heavenly strain. 
In praising the Saviour again and again. 



**WE WOULD SEE JESUS." 107 

The skies most pellucid will shine o'er the earth, 
With such beams of effulgence as never had birth, 
Since angelic anthems through all heaven rang, 
When " sons of God shouted, and morning stars sang." 

The earth in its holy and purified state 
Will surpass all the glory that man can relate ; 
Each prospect shall brighten, as saints shall behold 
Its beauties unfading, its grandeur unfold. 

If joys thus ineffable are to await, 
All those who prepare for this glorious state. 
Let those who may wish in the banquet to share. 
By faith and obedience strive to be there. 



«WE WOULD SEE JESUS." 

" We would see Jesus," — sweet the thought. 

Thus kindled in our breast ! 
This chosen wish 'mid all our wants 

We cherish as the best ; 
That Friend above all others prized, 

Our Saviour, Teacher, Guide, 
Shall still remain to us more dear 

Than all the world beside. 

Our hearts with heavenly love inspired 

Would claim an heirship here. 
And faith would stretch her pinions wide 

To soar to one so dear ; 



108 ''WE TTOrLD SEE JESUS." 

That boundless Source of light and truth 
Shall claim our highest praise, 

His love shall be our constant theme, 
Throughout our future days. 

While absent fi'om the strongest tie 

Of pure angelic love, 
Our hearts -would Trish their joys to know, 

And all their pleasures prove. 
Then would our bliss be most complete 

To see Thee face to face ; 
Around thy throne our longing souls 

Would find a resting-place. 

We wish to share those lovely smiles 

"\Miieh thy disciples knew, 
When from thy lips sweet counsels fell, 

When chosen friends -were few. 
Thy words, distilling like the dew, 

Would cheer each fainting mind, 
No other friendship would we seek, 

Isor other pleasure find. 

We love to think of aU thy deeds 

Of mercy while below ; 
The friendless, poor, and sujQfering ones 

Knew where their wants to show ; 
In thee they found a pitting friend. 

Who made their burdens hght ; 
The dumb rejoiced, the sick revived, 

The bhnd received their sight. 

His love for all our sinful race, — 
His sorrows and his feai'?, — 

His cruel death and sufferings here, — 
His anguish and his tears, — 



"we would see JESUS." 109 

All, all excite our hearts to love 

That friend we hold most dear, 
Nor shaU our earnest prayer be stiUed 

Till he in clouds appear. 

Still Jesus lives, though veiled from sight, 

The Christian's bosom friend ; 
He knows each want, and sorrowing tear, " 

And will from foes defend. 
He will abide, a willing guest, 

AVith every humble heart : 
From those who truly love his name 

He never wiU depart. 

As on the sacred mountain, Lord ! 

Thy glorious seal was set. 
So shall thy presence once more grace 

The brow of Olivet. 
The earth, impatient, waits for thee. 

To bear thv form again : 
Her groaning millions long to see 

Thy long-predicted reign. 

To see this Jesus is our wish, 

Our earnest, constant prayer ; 
Soon may we in his likeness wake, 

A victor's crown to wear. 
Thy httle flock all waiting stand, 

To hear that joyful word : 
" The kingdoms of this world are now 

The kingdom of our Lord." 

Confiding in each promise given. 

Our hearts with ardor burn ; 
We soon expect with joy to hail 

Our blessed Lord's return. 
8 



110 THE SECRET WISH. 

Then, then, shall dawn upon the earth, 

Millennial glory bright. 
And all the ransomed shall rejoice 

With rapturous delight. 



THE SECRET WISH. 

A MAIDEN sat beside a stream, 

Her face was bright and fair, 
The bloom of health vied with the flowers 

Which twined her glossy hair. 
Free as its crystal waters flowed, 

With mellow music past. 
Her joyous spmts knew that peace 

Which might not always last. 

The daisies on the mossy bank 

Which drank the silver dew, 
And nestled in the shady nook 

Where modest violets grew. 
Were not more happy nor content 

Upon a summer morn ; 
Nor birdling's tuneful lay more sweet 

When beauty's smiles were born. 

A cloud passed o'er that sunny sky, 

A shadow o'er the stream, — 
A secret thought possessed her breast, 

Which marred her happy dream : 
" I wish I were no more a child," 

The little maiden said, 
" Nor this my home, amid the flowers, 

Where fairy footsteps tread. 



THE SECRET WISH. Ill 

" I wish I were a woman fair, 

And dwelt in stately hall, 
With, hosts of servants ever near ^ 

To heed my slightest call ; 
With wealth in rich profusion there, 

To give me constant bliss, 
And no more dwell in lowly cot, 

'JMid rural scenes like this." 

The stream still danced most gayly on, 

And kissed the pebbly shore, 
While lilies marked its azure track 

With fragi'ance as before ; 
The little cowslip on the mead 

Joined in the general strain. 
While roses clustered on the lawn, 

And bloomed upon the plain. 

Around the humble doorway still 

The honeysuckle gi'ew. 
Replete with fragrance, and as sweet 

As Araby once knew ; 
And there, as partner in the scene, 

Still clung the trelHsed vine, 
Where luscious fruit as pendants hung. 

Inviting warm sunshine. 

Years rolled awav, no little feet 

Now danced upon the lawn, 
No ringino- lauo-h nor merry sons 

Awoke each happy dawn, — 
No little hands were busy now 

Among the forest bowers. 
For youth with its pure joys had fled, 

As incense from the flowers. 



112 THE SECRET TTISH. 

Amid tlie cit^-'s -n-earied tlirong, 

Oppressed "witii toil and strife, 
"Where numerous ills like dreaded foes 

Increase the cares of life, — 
"WTiere -svealth itself, "witli all its train, 

Cannot true peace supply, 
I saw a being, proud and fair, 

And thus I heard her sio;h : 

" My life is one of discontent, 

No sunshine lights my skies, 
Just when I gain some promised good 

The pleasm^e quickly flies ; 
My days are filled with bitter grief, 

My cherished favorites die ; 
I call them back with many a tear, 

But hear no kind reply. 

" I long beside my native stream 

Once more in peace to roam. 
And drink anew those sweet delights 

Which graced my halcyon home, — 
I long to hear the zephp-s pure, 

Soft whispering through the trees. 
And feast upon rich odors borne 

By eveiy gentle breeze. 

" O give me back my youthful days. 

Those joyous, happy hours. 
When free as birds upon the wing 

I roamed among the flowers : 
Youth's rosy goal I since have gained. 

But found both care and pain, 
And now I have but one fond wish, — 

Would I were young again .' " 



LINES TO JULIA. 113 

LINES TO JULIA 

ON HER TWENTIETH BIRTHDAY. 

Time's swift chariot rolls along, 
Crowded with its varied throng, 
Seeking rest, but changing ever ; 
Like the waves, returning never. 
Health and happiness expecting, — 
Friendship's hand with scorn rejecting, — 
Like the stormy petrel, roving 
Far from those with warm hearts loving, — 
On the billowy bosom heaving. 
Friends and homes for fortunes leaving, — 
Grasping fame by mean ambition, — 
Breaking vows without contrition, — 
More than gold a good name stealing, — 
Direful thoughts fearless revealing, — 
Now a sunny smile imparting, — 
Now, most threatening glances darting ; 
Now the clouds have passed away. 
Sunshine almost blinds the day. 
As a few break forth from sadness. 
And with shouts sing loud for gladness. 

Some for pleasure, some for gain, 

Some seek here their only fame, 

Cherishing some distant token, 

Which, when gained, the charm seems broken, ■ — 

Trusting what to them seemed dear, 

Which proves false when seen too near ; 

Undeceived, they strive in vain, — 

Severed links to join again. 



114 LINES TO JULIA. 

Some oppress tte poor and -weak ; 
Some the "allino- fetters break, 
"Who with holy virtue shine, 
Pourinor in the oil and wine. 
Binding np the broken-hearted, 
From whom every joy has parted, 
Prizing bonds now broken ever, 
\Yhich bind loving hearts together. 

Some in darkness sadly pine, 
Where in pain long days decline, 
Ebbing out the sands of hfe ; 
Few, but wasting in the strife ; 
Seeking light where peace is given, 
From o'erflowing founts in heaven. 

Some in sorrow, silent mourn. 
With kind hearts in anguish torn. 
Waiting, in a lingering death, 
Poisoned deep by slander's breath, — 
Some are sad, and some are blest, 
But all seek a future rest. 

Time's swift chariot on will roll. 
Hasting toward its distant goal ; 
Casting up the golden sands, 
Numbered by unerring hands. 
On the dial-plate of life ; 
Shaded off by pain and stiife, 
Pointing out another year. 
Which '• in teens " will not appear. 

Life in earnest now will meet thee, 
Duty's voice will ever greet thee, 
Angel's hands will safe protect thee, 
Chosen friends will not forget thee, 



LINES TO JULIA. 115 

Loving hearts shall prize thee ever, 
Chilling words shall crush thee, never, 
While pure thoughts most bounteous given. 
Float to thee serene from Heaven. 

Gird thy mantle firm around thee, 
Woman's years at length have found thee ; 
Prove thy strength, whate'er thy calling, 
In the right no ill befalling. 
Those who strive, the mastery gaining. 
Martyrs are without complaining. 
Reach the goal, the prize retaining, 
Every evil thought restraining ; 
Laurel-wreaths shall then adorn thee. 
Twined with roses, who shall scorn thee ; 
Unassuming as pet daisies, 
Justly said shall be thy praises. 

Now a year to thee is born. 
Blushing as the rosy morn, 
Breathing fragrance in each gale, 
Freely through each flowery vale ; 
Let your hopes be born anew. 
Every good with zeal pursue ; 
Kindness, like sweet odors, showing. 
Deeds of love on all bestowing, 
Blest words to the troubled telling. 
Dread forebodings quick dispelling. 
Bringing sunshine where was sadness. 
Threatening clouds soon change to gladness. 

Purest dew-drops on the mead. 
Let your inmost thoughts exceed, 
Words of wisdom glad distilling. 
Every heart with pleasure filling. 



116 SYMPATHY. 

And let faith and love increase, 

To enhance your constant peace, 

TeUing on life's future story, 

As you haste toward heaven and glory. 

Falter not, and weary never I 
Victory crowning each endeavor. 
Journeying toward the gates of peace, 
There to find a sweet release 
From earth's pain and toil and strife, 
Jovins in eternal life. 



ST^ilPATHY. 

Hovr sweetly words of s}Tnpathy 

Fall on the sufferers ear, 
Like silverA" music heard at night, 

On zephyrs floating near : 
They crently calm the troubled breast, 

And bid its tumult cease ; 
They wake responsive strains most dear, 

"Which eA'er whisper, Peace. 

True sympathy, like precious balm, 

Dispels the sorrowing tear. 
And bids the clouds of sadness flee, 

TVith all their shadows drear ; 
It brings warm sunshine to the heart, 

Oppressed with bitter woes. 
And soothes the troubled waters fast 

To sweet and calm repose. 



BLIND ORLEENA's SOLILOQUY. 117 

It drives the cares of life away, 

Or makes their burden less, 
And brings to weary pilgrims oft, 

Some gleams of happiness. 
Amid the hours of pain and gloom 

'T is like a star of night, 
Which glistens in the dome above, 

To make the darkness light. 

I treasure up each kindly word 

Or action ever done, 
As pictures bright to look upon 

When loving friends have gone ; 
And gratefully within my breast 

Shall fondest memories dwell. 
Concerning those whose deeds have proved 

Their generous feelings well. 

While in these thorny paths I stay 

While travelling to my home, 
I pray that I may often hear 

An angel footstep come 
With words of cheer to soon beguile 

A weary hour of pain. 
And bid my drooping spirits rise, 

And joy in hope again. 



BLIND ORLEENA'S SOLILOQUY 

O WHERE are the days of my childhood, so bright ? 
When innocence sported with earnest delight, — 
When pleasure unwearied, with bountiful hand. 
Directed my steps, at the gentlest command, 



118 BLIXD OKLEEXA's SOLILOQUY. 

To scenes of enjoyment, e'er constant and free 

As the winds, ■wliieh then fanned me, -were "welcome to be. 

HoTV often I wandered in youth's rosy mom, 

TThere flowers rejoiced that fresh beauty was bom, — 

To the spring in the meadow, — the old apple-tree, 

"W'ith its fairi'-like seat in its trunk, made for me, 

Where through each sunny day composed I would sit, 

As the hours flew by. and most steadily knit. 

Fulfilling my task for my grandmother's praise, 

TTho told me that those were life's happiest days, 

Which I scarce could believe, as I looked farther on 

For the prize to be sought, for the goal to be won, 

Not thinking that others much older than I 

Could best foresee clouds which darken life's sky. 

How often I roamed with my basket of toys, 
Exciting the wonder of merry, rude boys, 
To the weU-chosen spot, the old school-house near by. 
TVliere hours of pleasure seemed quickly to fly, — 
To the high granite rock, by the edge of the wood, 
Where unrivalled our famous old cherry-tree stood. 
The pride of my mates, who attended the school. 
Each claiming its clustei-s each season by rule ; 
The truth-telling stains round their rosv-red cheeks 
Soon declared how they longed for the harvesting weeks. 

I think with dehght of that silvery rill, 
AVhose music so sweet haunts my memory still, 
For oft on its green, mossy banks I would stay, 
And watch its bright wavelets dance swiftly away ; 
Oft launching for vessels some fair, tiny flowers, — 
A feast to my eyes in those joyous young hours ; 
How eager I watched as they swiftly sailed by, 
Their petals for sails pointing up to the sky, 
Xot thinking thus swit\ly our fond hopes decay, — 
Though charming our prospects, they soon fade away, 



BLIND OKLEENA'S SOLILOQUY. 119 

And leave us expecting some bright scene to cheer, 
More happy than those which now we find dear. 

Then earth e'er looked gay, with its sunshine and flowers, 
Which led me to value its bright rosy hours 
As so many gifts from their Author divine, 
Created for gladness, and numbered as mine ; 
Keflecting rare joys, which I thought ne'er would die. 
For no cloud of sorrow then darkened my sky. 

Those days have now passed, with their gladness'and mirth, 

So bright at their dawning, so pure at their birth ; 

The grass in the meadow grows green as of yore, 

And its strawberries are tempting as ever before. 

But the scene has been changed, strange footsteps are found 

To wander in peace o'er that once happy ground ; 

The old apple-tree, with its fair blushing pride. 

Still yields its rare fruit, with new friends by its side, — 

Which often so tempted some playmates of old. 

That their burden was more than their pockets could hold. 

The green shady nook by the orchard's high wall. 
Where seasons of merriment oft I recall, 
The homely made cot 'neath the great willow-tree, 
Where hours passed happy as happy could be. 
And the mound in the pasture, where sister and I 
Oft wandered for buttercups 'neath a June sky. 
Still live in fond memory as things of the past, 
Lent only for childhood, no longer to last. 

Those long-cherished spots I shall ne'er see again, 
Their charms, once so pleasing, no longer remain, 
Deep shadows now linger along that glad way, 
While temptations encompass my footsteps each day ; 
Now, other kind fingers train up my pet flowers. 
And give them their portion of sunshine and showers ; 



120 BLIND ORLEENA's SOLILOQUY. 

My little bird sings, as if mocking my tears, 

And strangers affoi-d no relief to my fears, 

AMiile I in my loneliness beg by the way, 

Oft marking "with sadness the long weary day, 

Though fair happy childi-en are passing along. 

Their hearts filled with mirth, and their voices with song ; 

Xo beautifiil thing can e'er gladden my sight, 
Xow darkened forever with curtains of night, 
The autumn's rich tints can delight me no more, 
Nor roses for me bloom so fair as before ; 
In earliest spring the bright violets come, 
Xo longer to smile on my loved cottage home ; 
On memory's page live the scenes of the past. 
Earth's flowers are crushed, but their odors still last. 

I think of my friends, those dear friends of my youth, 

"Who taught me rare lessons of wisdom and truth, 

Each sweet happy face I no more shall behold ; 

Already my father and mother are old, 

My brothei-s and sisters have all passed away, 

And grief is my portion, by night and by day ; 

Xow pensive each day I am left quite alone. 

My prospects all blighted, my spirits quite gone. 

I long for some friend who can cheer me again, 

To comfort in sorrow, to solace my pain ; 

I wish to find some one with whom I can dwell, 

"Whose glad, merry voice can my sadness dispel, 

"Whose kind hand will lead me where bright flowei's grow. 

And near cn-stal streams which with music e'er flow, 

To teU me of beauties which I cannot see. 

Thus kindly bestowing compassion on me. 

I think of the stars, with their beautiftil light, 

"Which twinkle in vain through my long gloomy night, 

At least for mii joy they have lost aU their fight, 

Which fike gems used to shine, all so beauteous and bright ; 



THE SHINING LIGHT. 121 

I think of tlie meads as they sparkle with dew, — 

Of the birds of the grove, with their rich, varied hue, — 

Of those rare, gorgeous shades, with their unequalled dye, 

In the bright bow of promise, which spans the blue sky ; 

I think of those sunsets of crimson and gold, 

Which fading away, softer beauties unfold. 

But all are now hid with their glories from me, 

I mourn in my blindness, O when shall I see I 

In the blest world to come no thick darkness is known. 

No lamb of the flock left to wander alone, — 

No evils to cast a dread shadow around, 

O'er the bright happy scenes of that enchanted ground ; 

Immortal, angehc, from bondage made free, 

The glories of heaven I ever shall see. 

Then let me, contented, in darkness remain, 
And patiently bear with my sorrows and pain, 
And trust to the hand that hath blinded mine eyes. 
To show me far brighter, far happier skies, — 
To lift high the veil, which no eye can behold, 
Where wonders transcendent new beauties unfold ; 
Then hoping, confiding, I calmly will wait, 
Till my burden is lost at the bright pearly gate. 



THE SHINING LIGHT. 



Pilgrim on thy heavenly journey. 
Though bright scenes invite delay, 

Let not grievous trials turn thee 
From the straight and narrow way ; 



122 THE SHINING LIGHT. 

Look above tlie clouds tliat gather 
Like a curtain dark as niglit, 

Let the golden sunshine rather 
Cheer thee with its welcome light. 

Let the glory ever shining 

From the throne e'er guide thy way, 
All thy weary steps inclining 

Toward the realms of perfect day. 
Let thy thoughts be e'er ascending 

Where thy treasure rests on high, 
Gloomy clouds in triumph rending 

By thy faith which cleaves the sky. 

Let the day-spring breathing o'er thee 

With its radiant beams of light, 
Keep this precious thought before thee, - 

With God's favor all is bright; 
Grief may cast its mantle o'er us. 

And dark shadows dim our way, 
But the shining light before us 

Soon shall chase all gloom away. 

May its blissful presence guide thee. 

Though the fruits of error lie 
With their tempting sweets beside thee, 

To thy blessed home on high. 
Let the storm then wildly press us, 

And dark billows round us roar, — 
Naught can ever long distress us, 

While we seek the heavenly shore. 

Truth is mighty, and prevaileth. 
Like the brilliant sun at noon. 

Over unbelief, which raileth 
In vain strife, to perish soon. 



THE DEATH OF THE RIGHTEOUS. 123 

May this holy light beam o'er us 

Like the smiles of God's dear love, 
Charming all life's way before us, 

Till we reach its fount above. 



THE DEATH OF THE RIGHTEOUS 

Let me die e'en like the righteous, — 

Strong in faith and full of hope ; 
On God's mighty arm relying, 

Confidently looking up. 
Let me leave this dreary valley, 

And with angel pinions soar 
To the realms of fadeless beauty. 

Where afflictions come no more. 

Journeying toward the promised haven. 

Where pure happiness is known, 
May I find a Father's welcome. 

Like a child returning home. 
As the twilight fades so quickly, 

When the rosy morn appears. 
May the glory of his presence 

Soon dispel all lingering fears. 

Let me leave this world of sadness. 

Where are known the ways of strife, 
And with true, unending gladness 

Enter on that glorious life ; 
Where long years of pain and sorrow 

Shall be changed to those of bliss, 
Where no dreaded, sad to-morrow . 

Shrouds our hopes as oft in this. 



124 THE DEATH OF THE RIGHTEOUS. 

Let me prize each ■word so heavenly, 

"SMiich the gracious Saviour spoke ; 
Dearer than the praises uttered 

When the box of ointment broke. 
As rare jewels may I cherish 

Each blest promise made for me, 
Then my heart can sing for gladness 

"NATiile my faith is strong in thee. 

Let me hear the final summons 

For my spirit's glad release ; 
On my ear most sweetly falling, 

As from angels whispering peace. 
In thy presence let me hide me 

'Neath the shadow of thy wing, 
Where, through grace and faith beside me, 

All my friends in triumph bring. 

Let me view the better country. 

With its hills and vales outspread, 
And amid its glories triumph, 

Quickened from the slumbering dead. 
Let me hear the blessed anthems 

AVhich the holy angels sing. 
Sweetly echoed by the ransomed. 

Who their highest praises bring. 

Then, with loved ones gone before us. 

Saved from death and woe and sin, 
We, with God's own hand stretched o'er us. 

To his joy shall enter in. 
Then our bliss shall be made perfect, 

Throughout ages ever blest ; 
And eternal glory crown us 

Where the righteous find their rest. 



MY HOME IS IN HEAVEN. 125 



MY HOME IS IN HEAVEN. 

My home is in heaven, — I care not to stay- 
Where all things around me are doomed to decay ; 
I look for a mansion most safe and secure, 
Whose foundations are holy, and long to endure. 

My home is in heaven, — I would not delay 
Where earth's sweetest flowers but live for a day ; 
Though we find a bright oasis, lingering here, 
It is but to be left, with a sigh and a tear. 

Though the pleasures of earth may charm for a while, 
And oft a sad heart with their secrets beguile : 
Like the choicest of perfume they soon pass away, 
Thus showing how fleeting and transient their stay. 

Here health may forsake me, and trials annoy. 
Like clouds they oft darken my sunshine of joy ; 
Yet sweet is that hope, a rare solace in pain, 
" If ye suffer, so likewise with me ye shall reign." 

My home is in heaven, — there, bright like a star 
The prize glistens proudly through shades not afar ; 
Afflictions, like clouds, may indeed veil the sky, 
But brighter the day when the night has passed by. 

My home is in heaven, — there, free from alloy, 
Await me rare treasures of unfailing joy, ^ 

More precious indeed than all earth's diadems, — 
Yea, not to be measured by gold or by gems. 

I long for that country, where skies are all fair, 
"WTiere all things most lovely we freely may share,^ 
9 



126 MY HOME IS IN HEAVEN. 

Where streams of pure crystal flow sweetly along 
From life-giving fountains most joj'ful with song. 

There beauty is fadeless among the green bowers, 
And breezes are soft with the breath of sweet flowers ; 
There rich tones of melody fall on the ear, 
Which angels themselves pause dehghted to hear. 

Then earth will be beautiful, richly arrayed 
In robes far more gorgeous than Eden displayed ; 
Each prospect shall smile with its rare wonders crowned, 
And dew-drops shall glisten Hke diamonds around. 

I long for that region of unfailing bHss, 

Where all shall be perfect, so unlike to this ; 

"Where holiness, like a rare jewel divine, 

In a breastplate of love most conspicuous will shine. 

That city, so glorious, I long to behold ; 
So garnished with rubies, with sapphires and gold ; 
Whose light is the Lamb in the midst of the throne, 
Whose glory all nations with wonder shall own. 

No tears shall be there, nor shall darkness prevail, 
Nor troubles be known, nor temptations assail, 
For Jesus shall circle his flock with his arm, 
Forever to shield them from danger and harm. 

There, friends once united, will never again 

Be called to endure bitter partings with pain. 

But made like the angels immortal and pure. 

Their peace shall be sweet, by love's signet made sure. 

I long for that country ; O soon may I share 

That home where can come no pain, sorrow, nor care ! 

There soon, by my Saviour eternally blest. 

May I find with his flock that most glorious rest. 



STANZAS. 127 



STANZAS, 



SUGGESTED BY THE DEATH OP J. B. P. 

From pleasant home, and loving friends, 

The sea-boy roamed afar, 
Nor feared the ocean's dashing foam. 

Before old Neptune's car. 
With manly heart, at duty's call. 

He sought a distant strand, 
Then longed once more in peace to see 

His own dear native land. 

With sunny skies all bright above, 

With prosperous breezes fair, 
With " ready wiU " he labored hard, 

Impatient to be there ; 
For well he knew a secret foe 

Would cause both grief and pain. 
If it should prove victorious then. 

When tossed upon the main. 



The gallant ship bore proudly on, 

With snowy sails outspread. 
Till soon was heard the welcome word 

The promised " land ahead." 
Nearer and nearer still they drew, 

Till glistening spires were seen, 
While far beyond appeared in pride. 

Fair landscapes clothed in green. 



But no kind voice salutes his ear. 
No friend the stranger knows ; 

His native place is far away. 

From where the palm-tree grows ; 



128 STANZAS. 

Weary and sick he seeks his couch, 

And pines in secret grief; 
He turns his thoughts toward his loved home, 

And sighs for sweet relief. 

There loving friends might e'er be found 

To soothe each bitter pain, 
And friendship's kindly voice be heard 

In accents not in vain. 
Such comforts as " sweet home " affords 

Would lend their constant aid, 
To give the lone one needed cheer. 

Or bid his grief be stayed. 

Did they but know the sufferer's lot, 

How gladly by his side 
Would three dear, lo\dng sisters wait, 

While ebbed life's feeble tide ; 
How would a parent's love, with care, 

Support the aching head, 
And words of consolation breathe, 

Till Hfe's last hope had fled. 

But dearer, yet more distant too, 

Earth's loveliest spot now seems. 
As wakes the troubled patient oft 

From tantahzing di'eams. 
And faintly and more dimly too 

The lamp of life must bm-n. 
Till son and brother can no more 

To cherished friends return. 
****** 

His race is run, — in south-land fair 

His lowly bed is found, 
"VMiere perfumed blossoms gently fall 

Like tears his gi-ave ai'ound. 



ON A WHITE ROSE. 129 

No loving friends are near to weep, 

Or plant bright flowers there ; 
But birdlings chant a requiem sweet, 

Who know no grief nor care. 

He sleeps in peace ; yes, sweetly sleeps, 

His wanderings all are o'er ; 
With him the storms of life are past, — 

He sought the heavenly shore. 
There in that " better country " far. 

Where troubles ne'er can come, 
He finds the promised haven blest, — 

A blissful, glorious home. 

Then, mourning friends, from tears refrain. 

The lost may yet be found. 
For far beyond earth's changing scenes 

Is known enchanted ground. 
There friends will meet with friends most dear, 

Sad partings all be o'er. 
And love's sweet bonds be joined again, 

Dissevered nevermore. 



ON A WHITE ROSE. 

Rose, upon thy fragile stem, 

White e'en like the fleecy snow. 
Crystal fount nor sparkling gem 

Cannot such sweet fragrance show. 
And we prize thee, spotless, pure, 

Like a pet we give thee place, 
Though thou may'st not long endure, 

Xet may we a lesson trace. 



130 ox A ^HITE EOSE. 

Innocence and beauty blend 

In thy soft and yelvet dress, 
Wbile thy blushes likewise tend 

To increase thy loveliness. 
Modest grace here too we see, 

Couched beneath thy emerald bed ; 
Till the mild wind kisses thee, 

Hidest thou thy white-crowned head. 

So true merit often lies 

Close concealed in modest dress, 
And the world's gay pomp denies. — 

Choosing with kind deeds to bless. 
Like sweet incense kind distilling 

Healthful balm on all around, 
Eyery heart most gladly filling 

With such peace as may abound. 

When the winds ai'ise. exciting, 

Stirring all the trembling leayes, 
Quickly to the caU replying, 

She her sweet concealment leaves. 
Then her worth is soon discovered, 

And her fame is known to all ; 
Praises then, as wreaths all fadeless, 

On her head like blessings fall. 

Hoses droop and fade and wither, 

And theu' tender petals fall ; 
Grief the sunniest sky o'ershadows, 

When loved friends obey the call ; 
Bidding them put off their blooming, 

When their vigor fades so fast. 
And the tomb, so sad and lonely, 

Holds the treasure finn at last. 



TO ISABEL. 131 

But dear friends, unlike the flowers, 

With celestial beauty blest. 
Shall, when sounds the heavenly signal, 

Break their cold and silent rest. 
They shall come, made like the angels, 

From all lands, afar and near, 
To the home of many mansions 

Which we hold in hope so dear. 



TO ISABEL. 

Time is flitting fast away. 
And must close life's changeful day ; 
Morning clouds, all tinged with red. 
Too must find their curtained bed, 
Soft reposing, quiet sleeping, 
With the dews their children weeping 
Crystal tears fast at the parting, 
Fading sunlight faintly darting. 

Pleasures here may bloom awhile, 
And our saddest thoughts beguile, 
yielding up their treasures rare 
To delight life's morning air, 
But their petals soon must die, 
Bequeathing us a perfumed sigh. 

Stars may sparkle bright on high, 
Gemming all the midnight sky, 
Soothing thoughts all quiet bringing. 
Unknown vespers silent hymning, 
Tet must fail their gentle ray 
Quickly at the rising day, — 



132 TO ISABEL. 

So earth's scenes may brightly glare, 
Tempting with their winning air, 
']\Iid the gloom their light revealing. 
Purer treasures often stealing. 
Showing oft their secret power 
False, when comes life's evening hour, 
Causing oft the midnight tear, 
Secret falling, none to hear. 
Perishing like stars of night 
Soon before a holier light. 

All is changing here below. 
Earth's delights, — a fleeting show, — 
Flowers bloom to droojD and fade, 
On green lawn, in valley's shade. 
Winds a mournful requiem sing, 
Bursting clouds their tribute bring. 
Beauty reigns, too soon it dies. 
Though passing sweet its mysteries. 
Friends are found, who love and bless. 
Death soon makes the number less ; 
All is changing like the sea, 
Pleasures come, as quickly flee, 
Perishing, to stay no more 
Than the bubbles on the shore. 

May your hopes be ever found 
Where true peace and rest abound, 
'^ Built upon the " comer-stone," 

Laid in Christ, the Holy One, 
Grace and glory then shall be 
Hidden treasures, kept for thee, 
Joys that naught like earth can give 
Shall in constant fulness live, 
Like a streamlet passing by, 
While the fount is full on high ; 



TO ISABEL. 133 

Life eternal e'er bestowing, 

From the throne most freely flowing. 

Virtue like a diamond fair, 

Set with brilliants pure and rare, 

Shall reflect thy honors wide, 

Blessing all, on every side. 

Pointing on toward life and light, 

Like a guiding star by night, 

Leading through earth's gloom and woe 

To those joys not found below. 

Seek thy rest, where rest is given, 
At the pearly gates of heaven, 
Where the walls of jewelled light. 
And the golden pavement bright 
Beckon thee to blest repose. 
To that bliss the seraph knows. 
Angels at the portals standing, 
With a crown to greet thy landing. 
From life's sea-tossed, quivering bark. 
Plunging through the waters dark. 

There sad changes all are o'er, 

Beauty hves to die no more. 

Flowers bloom in brighter dress. 

Glorious with their loveliness, 

Friendship's bonds no grief will sever, — 

Pain and tears be lost forever, — 

Rich perfumes shall fill the air. 

Health imparting everywhere, — 

Music linger on the ear. 

In such notes as angels hear. 

Glory from the throne above 

Filling all with peace and love ; 

All are happy, all are blest, — 

May this be your chosen rest. 



13-i C OXTEXTilEXT, 



coxtext:mext. or the blest jewel. 



I ASKED a young man blest witli health, 

Whose star of life was bright. 
To ■whom all future prospects seemed 

To dance in golden light. 
If he this jewel kept concealed 

Within his hopefid breast, — 
If at this stage he soon should pause, 

His soul would find sweet rest ? 

Ah, no ! he said : the goal beyond 

Invites my hastening feet : 
Distinguished honors wait me there, — 

Lite's warfare I must meet. 
I long to see the golden light 

Encircling my fau' name. 
And read on tablets deep engi'aved 

The mention of my fame. 

I asked a rich man. blest with wealth, 

And all things good and fair, 
To whom the skies looked bright above, 

Xo shadows lingering there ; 
If, blest with wealth, he there would wait. 

While Time's swift car rolled on, 
And be contented with his lot 

Till life's brief sands were nm. 

Ah. no I he said ; though pleasures lie 

Within my grasp each day, 
The wheel of fortune quick may turn 

And sweep my all away ; 



CONTENTMENT. 135 

A " little more " I must obtain 

Against an evil hour, 
And then secure will I repose, 

Nor fear the tyrant's power. 

I asked a poor man, struggling hard 

To breast the storms of life. 
Whose surging billows almost hide 

Him 'neath their angry strife ; 
If he had found that goodly tree, 

Whose precious fruit so fair, 
If tasted would all joy afford, 

And peaceful offerings bear. 

Ah, no ! he said ; the rich have wealth, — 

With ease it can provide, — 
While I toil on with grief opprest 

From morn till eventide. 
And when the shadows gather fast. 

My wasting strength quite spent, 
I lay me down 'mid tears and pain, — 

No ! I am not content. 

I asked the Christian, who is found 

Among the poor and great, 
Oft clothed in garments coarse and worn, 

Sometimes in robes of state. 
If he had found the jewel bright, 

More prized than rubies rare, 
Which would, as a pure treasure kept, 

Yield comfort everywhere. 

O yes ! he said, while radiant smiles 

Illumed his happy face ; 
That priceless gem has long been mine. 

The gift of sovereign grace ; 



136 PEACE, BE STILL ! 

Because at peace within, my heart 

Invites no anxious care, 
But sweet content her offering brings, 

And makes her dwelling there. 



PEACE, BE STILL! 

When o'er life's sky a curtain deep 

Close hides the genial light, 
Which ever shines dark clouds above, 

With rays most pure and bright ; 
When sorrows crowd around our way, 

And tears our chahce fill, 
Then gladly hears the burdened soul 

The accents, — " Peace, be still ! " 

When love's sweet bonds are severed wide, 

And cherished friends depart, 
Who, though so pure and spotless here, 

Might not escape death's dart ; 
When poignant grief or dull despair 

Their bitter dews distil. 
Then softly as sweet music comes 

The gentle, — " Peace, be still ! " 

Like balm from Gilead freely sent. 

Or fruits from Eschol's vine. 
They bid our drooping spirits rise, 

And cause the face to shine ; 
While living streams forever flow, 

Free as the mountain rill ; 
Then in most soothing tones we hear 

The accents, — " Peace, be still ! " 



ON THE DEATH OF MRS. J. U. L. 137 

May He who rules the raging storm, 

Who bids the billows sleep, 
Uphold us with his outstretched hand. 

And ever near us keep. 
How would our hearts within us bum, 

And joy our bosoms fill. 
Could we above life's tempests hear 

His holy, — " Peace, be still ! " 



ON THE DEATH OF MRS. J. U. L. 

As autumn leaflets quiet fall 

To kiss their mother earth, 
Obedient to the general call, 

As when they first had birth, — 
So gently did the summons come 

To call our friend away, 
To dwell forever in that home 

Where angels love to stay. 

Too pure to longer here remain 

To mingle in earth's strife. 
Where grief and tears and toil and pain 

Are portions in this life. 
Her gentle spirit, like a bird 

Held captive in the hand. 
The message for its freedom heard. 

And sought its native land. 

Beyond the scenes of care and sadness, 

With peace upon her brow. 
Her spirit, blest with untold gladness, 

Is sealed an angel now. 



138 ON THE DEATH OF MRS. J. U. L, 

Although her heart "was blessed below 

"With all that love could give, 
Yet gifts from which affection flow 
Cannot forever live. 

As twilight fadeth in the west, 

"When droops the eye of dav, 
So calmly did she sink to rest, 

Passing from earth away, — 
That, with a heavenly vision bright. 

She might behold that land 
"Where fall no shades of sorrow's night, 

"Where waiting seraphs stand. 

She leffc us when we fondly dreamed 

Her stay with us was long, 
So happy all her prospects seemed. 

So joyous was her song. 
But though she lies so still and cold. 

Her accents linger near : 
As leaves of memory- fast unfold. 

They wake the silent tear. 

Not for herself she lived alone, 

Nor e'er the sick forgot : 
She knew their sorrows every one, 

And wished a happier lot. 
The tribute of the silent tear 

Revealed her pitting heart, 
"UTiich made her friendship still more dear. 

Too true to soon depai't. 

We think of all the pleasant things 

She spoke to us in peace. 
Before her spirit spread its wings, 

To gain its sweet release ; 



ON THE DEATH OF MRS. J. U. L. 139 

Safe in love's treasury we keep 

As jewels, every word, 
Which sympathy, most kind and deep, 

From its true fountain stirred. 

She sleeps in peace, her rest is sweet, 

Her conflicts all are o'er, 
Eternal pleasures now her greet, 

A victor evermore. 
She learned the song the ransomed know, 

When saved from woe and sin, 
She saw the glory from below, 

And boldly entered in. 

We miss her ; but we not again 

Would wish her back to earth. 
To know the ills and bear the pain 

Which here 'mid tears have birth, — 
Where hearts with sorrow broken 

Mourn on the desert shore. 
And look for love's sweet token 

To bless them evermore. 

Her memory is truly blest ; 

For as the righteous die. 
She gladly claimed her future rest, 

Her birthright from on high. 
Precious the death of those who sleep 

Reposing " in the Lord," 
He will the sacred treasure keep 

According to his word, — 

Immortal, free from every stain, 

Angelic, holy, pure, 
She waits to meet us once again, 

Where happy scenes endure. 



140 ONE KIND WOKD. 

United then to part no more, 
Our jovfiil feet shall stand 

"With loved ones ^ho have gone before, 
Safe in the promised land. 



OXE KIND WOED. 

0:sT. kindlr ^vord. ho"w sweet its tone, 
When dropped from lips sincere. 

It has a cadence all its own, 
So soft, so pure, so clear. 

The gentlest whisper may convev 

Blest music to the heart, 
And vibrate through each happy day. 

Touched by its magic art. 

Sweet memories will gather fast 

Around our paths each day, 
And peace a golden sunshine cast, 
Not soon to fade away. 

And when we cull the choicest flowers 
"Which bloom to charm us here, 

They but recall those halcyon hours 
By friendship ere made dear. 

Let lo\-ing words fall on my ear. 

In such bewitching tone, 
That I may still sweet music hear 

When dearest friends have gone. 



ON A SLEEPING CHILD. 141 

Then on some calm and twilight hour, 

When zephyrs fan the trees, 
Shall I still feel their cheering power, 

When whispered by the leaves. 

And when sweet perfumes fill the air 

At morning's rosy hour, 
They will but speak of joys most rare, 

Which bloomed in friendship's bower. 

No kind, sweet word is e'er forgot. 

Which falls from lips most true ; 
Each is a bright " Forget-me-not," 

AH wet with sparkling dew. 



ON A SLEEPING CHILD 

Sleep on, thou little slumberer, 

Upon thy mother's arm ; 
Thou know'st no fear nor sorrow there, 

Secure from all alarm. 
In quiet dream thou restest now, 

As on a bed of flowers, — 
E'en as a lily bows its head, 

When fall the summer showers. 

Blest angels guard thy little bed. 

And fold their wings, to stay 
Beside thy lovely form, to keep 

All shadows far away. 
And when the sunshine's golden lips 

Drink up the dew at dawn. 
They plant fair blushes on thy cheeks, 

Caught from the breath of morn. 
10 



142 TO aAROPHELIA. 

Sleep on ! thou little innocent. 

EnjoT thy peaceful rest, 
E'en like a timid, gentle dove 

TTithin its downy nest ; 
And when thy merry, happy songs 

Float on the perfumed air, 
No liquid note will sound more sweet, 

Xor silveiy chimes more rare. 

When through the woods and shady dells 
« With buoyant steps you roam, 
To cuU. the sweetest, choicest flowers, 

To grace thy native home. 
May you with joyous heart behold. 

Upon the petals fair, 
The tokens of thy Father's power, 

Who makes us all his care. 

And when shall pass away so soon 

Thy childhood's hours serene, — 
When duty's silent voice shall lead 

Through many a varied scene, 
May benedictions from the skies 

Beam on thy upward way, 
TiU aU earth's cares and griefs are lost. 

When dawns the perfect day. 



TO GAROPHELIA. 

Though pure and holy be the bond, 

Which to our secret thoughts respond. 

And bid us twine a sacred bower, 

In token of each pleasant hour, 

Yet leave we here no emblems fair, 

With which such cherished thouiihts to share. 



ANOTHER YEAR. 143 

But in affection's shrine will be 
Enduring gems of constancy. 
Which will reflect both joy and peace, 
When cold deceit and flattery cease, 
And shed a lustre o'er our way, 
With sweet content from day to day. 

True friendship sheds a holy light 
In gloomy sorrow's dismal night. 
And studs its curtain, dark and drear, 
With stars, — pure kindly acts, — most dear 
To suffering ones, oppressed with care. 
Who oft no tender feelings share. 

Our happiest moments, pure, serene, 
Brighten like flowers a dreary scene ; 
And like their fragrance may convey 
Sweet solace in a darksome day. 
They calmly cheer the ills of earth, 
Where gloom with its sad train has birth. 

Yet in fond memory shall abide 
Each friendly act, whate'er betide ; 
Each pleasing wish, all proffered aid, 
Shall still remain when health shall fade. 
With kindly influence e'er to cheer 
A lonely heart when pains are near. 



ANOTHER YEAR. 

What joys and hopes, what griefs and feare. 
Are numbered with the fleeting years ! 
What trials crowd the path of life. 
What grievous cares, what busy strife, 



144 ANOTHER YEAR. 

What tears bedew tlie brightest eye, 
What shadows veil the sunniest sky, 
"What blissful thoughts, rich with perfume, 
Are bom, alas ! but die too soon ! 

As Time's swift chariot rolls along, 
Filled with its vast and varied throng, 
All eager for that shining goal, 
Which can appease the longing soul ; 
How very few, alas ! can tell 
Of secret peace, which charmeth well. 
Or speak of hopes, by faith made sure, 
As living truths, which must endure. 

How many a joyous heart has seen 
Bright prospects fail, as in a dream 
One sees some cherished object fly 
Just when it seemed approaching nigh. 
How many a sunny spot, once fair, 
Now feels the blight of sorrow there, 
Because its loveliest flower has gone, 
No more to grace its native home. 

The purest and the best depart, 
And leave a gloom within the heart. 
Dispelled alone but by that power 
Which can illume the darkest hour ; 
Then sweetest memories gather fast 
Around the sainted of the past, 
Which bid us still unwearied view 
The pearly gate they entered through. 

Another year has rolled away ; 
Another year has dawned to-day, 
Bright with the hopes of joy and peace. 
And crowned with gifts rich with increase ; 



KOCKT GLEN. 145 

May purest blessings from above, 
Distilling from the Fount of Love, 
Fill every heart, both rich and poor, 
So that no soul could ask for more. 

And as the seasons pass away. 
Which nearer bring the perfect day, 
Which knows no pain, nor toil, nor care, 
Nor shadows dark, nor trials there ; 
Should we be called to that sweet rest. 
Which e'er awaits the truly blest. 
May we with joy the summons hear, 
And triumph over every fear. 



EOCKY GLEN. 

In " Rocky Glen," near the deep-sounding sea. 
Is the beautiful spot that is chosen for me. 
Where beneath the green boughs, I can list to the lays. 
Which gay warblers repeat through the long summer days. 
And can breathe the sweet perfume which floats slowly by 
On the wings of mild zephyrs, beneath a June sky, 
Often charmed by the harmony nature bestows 
On my glad listening ear, as I sink to repose. 

Near my pleasant retreat flows a pure crystal stream, 
Which glides slowly along the green meadows between. 
On whose bright mirrored surface the starlets at night 
Seem most friendly to blend with the moon's silvery light, 
And to vie with the sunshine which peeped through the trees, 
When disturbed by the breath of the morning's pure breeze. 
Ere the beautiful sight should soon vanish away. 
As the roseate hues in the east spoke of day. 



146 "let theee be light." 

In the whispering ■woodlands which skirt the green fields, 
All replete \vith rich bounty, the harvesting yields, 
The children of solitude, — wild flowers bloom, 
E'er distilling their treasures of sweetest perfume. 
As they peep from their covert, all beauteous and fair, 
Richly dripping with dew, in the soft quiet air, — 
The faint type of that glory which graced the wide earth, 
When the morning stars sang o'er their heavenly birth. ^ 

When old ocean in fury is shaking its mane, 
Like a terrified beast which no master can tame. 
And its voice breaks so wildlv along the wide shore, 
Oft awakening the gloom with an increasing roar, — 
Then I fist to the conflict of armies again. 
As they surged to and fro on the blood-checkered plain, 
But hear in the stillness, when the war-cry is o'er. 
The soft whisperings of peace, which my quiet restore. 

In the spring-time, when violets spangle the lawn 
With their little blue eyes, on a beautiful mom, — 
In the summer, when music floats through sylvan bowers, 
And cool zeph}-rs are blest with the breath of sweet flowers, 
AVhen the rainbows of autumn are seen in the trees. 
And the harvester's chorus is borne on the breeze. 
Then let all who may wish from their sorrows to flee. 
Once behold " Eocky Glen," my new home by the sea. 



"LET THERE BE LIGHT." 

Thick darkness brooded o'er the slumbering earth, 

While silent at the gate of morning, slept 

The warder, with his golden quiver full 

Of shining arrows barbed with crimson light, 

TVTiich lay concealed as in a sacred shrine, 



"let there be light." 147 

Awaiting royal hands to bring them forth. 

Above his brow, a crown of purest white, 

Inlaid with brilliants and rose-tinted pearls, 

In silent grandeur rested, like a cloud 

Of diamonds girt with bands of rainbow hue. 

Whose beauty veiled in deepest shade refused 

To cast a glory o'er the dismal scene. 

Above, no star-gemmed canopy o'erspread 

The wide expanse, on which are seen the steps 

Of angels, as in countless hosts they march 

On azure pavements round the sapphire throne ; 

Below, no signs of life or beauty stirred 

The praise of seraphs, who, with folded wings 

In wonder e'er behold the wondrous power 

Of Him who maketh all things wise and good and fair. 

On either hand dark curtains hung, where lay 

Entombed within the wide unmeasured space, 

A priceless, unknown jewel, destined yet 

Upon the signet ring of Him to shine 

Whose royal seal proclaims the wisdom, love, 

And matchless skill of the great Architect. 

Upon the face of mighty waters dwelt 

A cloud, which in its hollow chambers drear 

Concealed the restless billows capped with foam, 

And hushed its echoes in deep solitude. 

The searching eye of Deity, with whom 

Alike the darkness and the light are one, 

Beheld the lonely scene, so desolate. 

While on His ear low moans from Heaven above, 

And earth beneath, fell piteously distinct, 

Like the sad wailings of the wintry wind, 

As in their prison-house enchained, they sighed 

In mutual grief for life, and light unknown ; 

Then moved by love and power infinite. 

In majesty He gave the great command, — 

And yet commanded from His throne no one, — 

" Let there he light !" and instantly " light was." 



148 SLEEP. 



SLEEP. 



When nio:lit with unseen finders draws 

Its curtain o'er the sky, 
Embroidered with those brilliant gems, 

Which shine so pure on high, 
Within its darksome shade there comes 

The messenger of rest, 
Who in deep silence folds his wings. 

Above each weary breast. 

"With noiseless footsteps soft and light, 

Like flakes of falling snow. 
He ventures near, and lays his wand 

Upon my aching brow, 
Forgetful of those varied cares, 

With which earth's labor teems, 
I tread the flowery paths of peace, 

Found in the realm of dreams. 

I oft recline in lovely bowers. 

And muse contented there, 
Where charming fragrance, freely breathed, 

Pervades the balmy air. 
I wander through fair meadows green. 

Where modest violets grow. 
And through the woodland's spicy shade, 

Where dancing streamlets flow. 

I list enchanted to those strains 
Which sweetly charm the mind. 

Struck from a harp by unseen hands, 
And borne upon the wind ; 



ON THE DEATH OF MES. JENNIE B. L . 149 

I catch the burden of a song, 

As floats the echo by, 
Whose heavenly cadence breathes of joys 
Which never, never die. 

I meet again the loved and true, 

Whose voice once cheered me here. 
And list to hear those accents pure 

Which once brought heaven near. 
Content and blest I thus would stay. 

And know no harm nor fears, 
Where angel spirits always dwell, 

To chase desponding tears. 

But sleep extends her gentle wings. 

Obedient to her laws. 
And night before the gates of morn 

Her curtain dark withdraws. 
I wake amid life's toils and cares. 

And find not all a dream ; 
But though dark clouds may round us lower, 

Blest rays of hope still gleam. 



ON THE DEATH OF MRS. JENNIE B. L- 

• Is home made desolate once more ? 

Do special loved ones mourn ? 
Are stricken hearts in sorrow bowed. 

By sad bereavement torn ? 
Ah ! Death has one sharp, cruel dart 

Prepared alike for all, 
The good and pure escape it not, 

But oft the sooner fall. 



150 ON THE DEATH OF MRS. JENNIE B. L 

Like roses gemmed with crystal dew, 

Upon a morn in June, 
"SThicli nestle 'mid their petals bright, 

Lest they should fade too soon, 
The fairest and the best are sought, 

For such have special worth, 
The fragrance of their holy lives 

Proclaim their heavenly birth. 

When Autumn's cold and piercing winds 

Sweep o'er the blooming plain, 
Bright flowers are in their beauty lost. 

Till Spring returns again ; 
Even so our friends who leave our side. 

Touched by death's chilling hand. 
Shall live with richer, loveher grace 

Within the better land. 

Her spirit gently passed away, 

Like twilight's peaceM hour 
When fragrant zeph}'TS stir the leaves 

And whisper to each flower. 
Her sun has set in glorious light, 

No cloud obscured the way ; 
We know a sorrowing, tearful night, 

But she the perfect day. 

When words of prayer from fervent hearts 

Addressed the heavenly throne, 
God sent the special message forth, 

And claimed her for his own. 
Thus wafted homeward to the skies, 

On wings of faith she rose, 
Like incense from the holy place, 

To blest and sure repose. 



ON THE DEATH OE MRS. JENNIE B. L- . 151 

Our Father guards his chosen here, 

He knows their tears and pain, 
And they are safely treasured up 

For everlasting gain. 
What though earth's brightest prospects fail, 

And hopes are born to die, 
Though sad and strange their pilgrimage, 

Their " record is on high." 

What though unseen the hand has been 

Which led her patient way. 
Which pillowed oft the aching head 

And wiped her tears away ; 
What though no voice, nor angel's wing 

Was heard at midnight hour, 
Blest words of comfort oft she heard, 

And felt their secret power. 

What though the casket, bright and fair. 

Is marred by death's design. 
The precious treasure fairer still 

Shall with more beauty shine. 
The soul released from earthly bonds, 

Which checked its progress here. 
Shall know more glorious, wondrous things, 

Than mortals ever hear. 

It was her choice, her heart's desire, 

To do her Father's will, 
To suffer, if it needs must be. 

Obedience to fulfil. 
She knew the hand that cast the veil 

Upon life's sunniest sky, 
But also saw beyond the gloom 

That glory shone on high. 



152 ON THE DEATH OF MRS. JENNIE B. L 

And when lier burdened soul would sink 

Beneath the swelling wave, 
By faith she grasped the proffered hand, 

"Which has all power to save. 
With confidence she trusted Him, 

Who knew her fondest will, 
And often heard as from His lips 

The blessed " Peace, be still." 

God " giveth his beloved sleep," 

So sweet her rest shall be. 
Forever from earth's ills released. 

From all temptation free. 
In mansions long prepared she dwells, 

With angels ever blest, 
Where not a pain nor sigh nor tear 

Invade that glorious rest. 

Victorious over every foe, 

She found the heavenly shore, 
And, crowned with pure, celestial light. 

She triumphs evermore. 
Her voice shall swell the conqueror's song. 

With blest, seraphic strains. 
While joy supreme shall fill her soul, 

^Vhere bliss forever reigns. 

Then sorrow not, ye mourning friends ! 

From bitter tears refrain ! 
The loss ye now so deeply feel 

Was her eternal gain. 
The hand that wounds shall kindly heal, 

And give you constant peace, 
While benedictions from the skies 

Shall yet your joys increase. 



AUTUMN. 153 



The absent one so fondly dear, 

The object of your care, 
You soon shall meet with peace again, 

Her love more fully share. 
At home within the pearly gates, 

Near Jesus' loving breast, 
To golden Ij-res she e'er shall chant 

The anthems of the blest. 

Another chain now sweetly draws 

Your burdened hearts on high. 
The " anchor of your soul" is there. 

For there your treasures He. 
Then sorrow not like those who know 

On earth no " blessed hope," 
But kiss the rod which love appoints. 

And trustingly look up. 



AUTUMN. 

Autumn, with a queenly beauty, 

Walks in triumph o'er the plain, 
Giving to the changing woodland 

All their varied charms again ; 
As she glides with measured footsteps 

O'er the hills and meadows green. 
Every tender leaf is tinted, 

Ere her royal robes are seen. 

Golden sheaves of bounteous harvest 
Welcome her each sunny mom. 

When they hear her rustling garments 
Passing through the fields of com ; 



154 ATTUMX. 

TThen wltli patient ear they listen 
To the Tvords she chants the Tvhile, 

Which can cause their -withered graces 
With a pleasing J07 to smile. 

In parterre and blooming valley, 

Where bright flowerets lingering stay, 
In warm sunshine all rejoicing 

Ere their glorT fade awav, 
She draws near with timid footsteps, 

Lulling all to dewy sleep, 
Loring o'er their peaceful slumbers 

Guardian watchfulness to keep. 

On the siofhing wind she breatheth 

Pensive tones for every year. 
As a requiem o'er the lost ones, 

Who performed their mission here. 
Like a fragrant bud of summer. 

Drooping when they seem most fair, 
Cherished words to us bequeathing, 

Chaining sweetest memories there. 

With untaught but skilful iingers 

She weaves chaplets for the dead, 
Ere the fading, trembling leallets 

Seek their lowly, mossy bed ; 
While in those rare tints she painteth, 

With a true and skilful hand, 
T}-pes we see of fadeless beauty, 

"\Miich adorns the better land. 

Like the changing leaf of autumn, 
Man must also pass away, 

Though the voice of love and friendship 
Loud invite a long delav ; 



TO GERALDINE. 155 

But beyond earth's changing shadows, 
Where its griefs and cares ne'er come, 

Scenes of endless joy invite him 
To a blest, eternal home. 



TO GERALDINE. 

I THINK of thee, when beauteous morn 
With golden tints the skies adorn, — 
Wlien heaven's blue portals open wide. 
Through which the fairy coursers glide. 
On wings of light, to chase away 
The sombre hues preceding day, — 
When sunbeams stoop to kiss the dew. 
Resplendent with each rainbow hue, — 
When flowers unfold their petals fair. 
And pour their perfume on the air, 
Eeflecting back their gifts to heaven, 
An incense sweet, so wisely given, — 
When nature from reposing wakes. 
And every morn new beauty takes, 
When warblers true their songs anew. 
With throats just moistened with the dew, 
Whose anthems vibrate on the ear. 
In notes so sweet that heaven seems near ; 
When thus the welcome morn I view, 
My chosen friend, I think of you. 

I think of thee, at dazzling noon. 

When bashful, hides the beauteous moon, 

Perhaps at her siesta sleeping. 

Her silver robe for evening keeping, — 

When gushing fountains sparkling play 

Throughout the livelong summer day, 



156 ON THE DEATH OF AN INFANT. 

And cast their pearly treasures round. 
With bounteous hand, and jo}^ul sound, 
Inviting all to cooling shade, 
Which rosy bowers have near them made. 

I think of thee at close of day. 
When sunset rolls his car away, 
On azure pavement in its flight, 
With burning wheels of crimson light, 
Reflecting through the western sky 
Those gorgeous shades of matchless dye. 
Which are but types most faintly given, 
Of fairer scenes, fadeless in heaven. 



LINES, 

SUGGESTED BY THE DEATH OF AN INFANT. 

A BiRDLiNG cradled in its nest, 

Upon Helena's isle, 
One moment left its mother's breast, 

To prove its strength awhile. 
All pure it wandered forth alone, 

It found a sunnier clime. 
On angel pinions swiftly borne. 

Beyond the bounds of time. 

Nor did it care to come again, 

Though downy was its nest. 
For, free from every earthly stain. 

It found the Saviour's breast, 
Where, joyous in its peaceful home, 

Exempt from every ill. 
It wished its mother, too, might come, 

To see her darling still. 



ON THE DEATH OF AN INFANT. 157 

Though flowers bloom so sweetly here, 

How soon they must decay, — 
Though memory cause the bitter tear, 

'T is sweet to look away 
To that blest land where all is bright, 

Where naught is born to die, 
Where come no shades of sorrow's night. 

Where tears bedim no eye. 

The tender bud that drooped to earth, 

Which God had kindly given, 
'Mid honors of celestial birth 

Shall fairer bloom in heaven. 
Then be consoled, ye sorrowing one, 

Let hope dispel each fear, 
No floweret left to thrive alone 

Could yield such fragrance here. 

Two moons had waned since his first breath 

On earth was transient given, 
Before he silent sank in death. 

To be enrolled in heaven. 
With pure, seraphic pleasures blest. 

Such little lambs shall be 
Fit subjects for that holy rest, 

Such blessed purity. 

Safe landed on that heavenly shore 

Where partings never come, 
His angel presence evermore 

Shall bless his mother's home- 
His tiny voice to harps of gold 

Shall chant immortal lays. 
While constant glories fast unfold, 

Bespeaking ceaseless praise. 
11 



158 LINES TO A FRIEND. 

On flo^very plains 'neath brighter skies, 

Within the promised land, 
Parents shall view, with joyful eyes, 

Their little children stand, — 
For such as these the Saviour blest, 

Within Jerusalem ; 
And yet, like jewels, shall they rest 

Bright in his diadem. 

Where peaceful streamlets murmur slow, 
Through landscapes far outspread, 

■ Where beauty shall pure gifts bestow, 
Their little feet shall tread, 

Directed by their Shepherd where 
" Still-waters " ghde in peace. 

The little flock his love shall share, 
Which ne'er toward them shall cease. 



LINES, 



ADDRESSED TO A FRIEND ON THE RECOLLECTION 
OF HAPPY HOURS. 

Those bright, happy hours I ne'er can forget, 
For memory there its bright signet has set, — 
I think of those days 'mid my sorrows and pain, 
Though pleasant, I ne'er shall enjoy them again, 
In despondency often they brought me sweet cheer, 
While friendship's kind hand was so willingly near. 

Our joys that are sweetest the soonest decay. 
Too precious their nature to here longer stay, 



LINES TO A FRIEND. 159 

Like sunset all burnished with crimson and gold, 
A few moments passed, and their splendor is told ; 
Though they fade from our visions, they may not depart, 
Forever unseen they may live in the heart. 

Though the dearest of hopes refuse longer to stay. 
And our life's fairest scenes Hke the dew pass away, 
Yet there is a bright land where our peace shall remain, 
With no sickness, no sorrow, no partings, no pain ; ' 

In that Paradise blooming with ceaseless delight. 
May kind friends, though long parted, forever unite. 

In that fair " better land," where new beauties shall bloom, — 

Where bright flowers shall sweeten the air with perfume, — 

Where all that is wonderful, joyous, and pure. 

With all that is holy shall ever endure. 

May you, crowned, immortal, its glories behold. 

With angelic bliss, which can never be told. 

Soon, soon shall the promised, most glorious morn, 
On Zion's glad children triumphantly dawn, 
Her turrets already are gleaming with light, 
Her spires are glistening with splendor most bright, 
And her palaces soon shall re-echo the praise 
Of the jubilee hymn to the " Ancient of Days." 

O, then may your voice 'mid the seraphic throng. 
Be sweetly attuned to the heavenly song, — 
To swell high the anthem to Jesus our King, 
Who comes to his saints full salvation to bring ! 
Then in the new earth, made like Eden most fair, 
May you in the victory blissfully share. 



160 NO EE5T FOE US HEKE 



XO EEST FOR US HEEE. 

Xo rest for the Tveary, — no rest for the soul, 
Where clouds often gather, -where deep billo"ws roU: 
"While prosperous and happr, our path mav seem bright, 
Our prospects most pleasing, our burdens most light ; 
But when our hearts fail us through sorrow and fear, 
O then do we feel there 's no rest for us here ! 

Xo rest for the weary, — no rest here on earth, 
Where pains and afflictions and troubles hare birth, — 
Where aU that can chain and enfeeble the mind 
Is often most near us when pleasures we find. 
And we frequently say, 'mid a smile and a tear, 
Xo rest for the weary. — no rest for us here. 

While sin has dominion, no peace can be found, 
Though the fairest of flowers our pathway surround, 

Though sweet be the fruit we apply to the Up, 
As grateful as nectar which fairies might sip ; 
Tet often while plucking the rose-bud so dear, 

The thorn but reminds us — no rest for us here. 

Here gloom has its portion, and grief has its sway, 

Like clouds they oft darken our happiest day, 

And cast a drear shadow where bright rays have shone. 

Obscuring those treasures we cherish alone ; 

Yes, oft when our days seem most simny and clear, 

Our soiTows remind us — no rest for us here. 

The evils of sin we may always here feel. 
If o'er oiu' calm spirits a gloom should but steal ; 
Each sweet has its contrast, each pleasure its snare, 
Though blossoms may sweeten the fi-esh morning air, 
The poison oft lurks where no danger seemed near, 
And pciin but assures us — no rest for us here. 



NO REST FOR US HERE. 161 

Content and profusion may gladden each heart, 
And solace each fear with the peace they impart, 
Yet leaving one scene filled with gifts of delight. 
The next may then greet ns with penury's blight ; 
So while through life's quicksand we anxiously steer, 
Experience teaches — no rest for us here. 

The pilgrim to Zion, though steadfast his gaze 

On Jesus, his guide through this world's dreary maze, 

Here sighs, as the signs of his sorrows unfold, 

Though conscious the dross then escapes from the gold ; 

Yet patiently sufiering, with faith and hope clear. 

His heart then responds — there 's no rest for us here. 

No rest for the weary — no rest can be found, 
This side of the beautiful enchanted ground ; 
On earth, tribulation and trials must be, 
Till sin and its evils forever shall flee ; 
Then saints e'er exempt from a sigh and a tear, 
Will gladly exclaim, O sweet rest for us here ! 

Sweet rest for the pilgrim, — sweet rest for him now, 
And garlands of beauty shall deck his fair brow ; 
His trials are ended, his pleasures begun. 
His conquest is certain, his victory won ; 
Rejoicing through Jesus his laurels to wear. 
He finds then unfailing sweet rest always there. 

O glorious rest ! we would share its repose. 

Where the thorn never stings, — where the brier ne'er 

grows, — 
Where bright flowers shall bloom with their sweetness to 

charm. 
And naught shall inspire even dread or alarm, — 
When Paradise will with its wonders requite 
Each cheerful beholder, with life and delight. 



162 YES, THEN I'll think of you. 

Lord ! grant us our portion, wliere rest can be found, — 
Where holy enjoyments shall always abound, — 
Where glories ineffable shine o'er the way, 
Resplendent with beauties which never decay ; 
There, there crowned immortal, eternally blest, 
The weary shall sing of his sweet, peaceful rest. 



YES, THEN I 'LL THINK OF YOU. 

When mom with rosy beams is seen 
To kiss the dew from leaf and flower, 

And bid the tinted roses spread 

Their petals fair, to grace the bower. 

Then when I see each lovely hue, 

Yes, then, my friend, I'll think of you. 

Then blushing blossoms freely yield 
Their fragrance to the morning air, 

And flowerets of all hues are seen 
Revealing beauties each may shaie ; 

When bloominoj nature's gifts I view. 

Yes, then, my friend, I '11 think of you. 

When twilight comes with measured pace. 
To soothe the cares of closing day, — 

When perfumed zephyrs gently breathe 
Their grateful odors free away ; 

'Tis then, when trusting hearts are true, 

Yes, then, my friend, I'll think of you. 

"When night with sombre curtain hides 
The golden beams of life and light ; — 

"V\Tien sparkling gems attract our eyes. 
With brilhant rays, like diamonds bright. 



YES, THEN I'll THINK OF YOU. 163 

When first thy favorite star I view, 
Yes, then, my friend, I '11 think of you. 

When spring-time comes, all gay and bright. 

Rejoicing in its new-born life, — 
When songsters tune their httle" throats. 

To strains unknown to mortal strife, — 
When earth is dressed in robes most new, 
Yes, then, my friend, I '11 think of you. 

When music comes on evening breeze, 
With welcome notes so soft and sweet, 

As to entrance each listening ear, 

And bind in chains the lingering feet, ., 

E'en when the sweetest tones are few, 

Yes, then, my friend, I '11 think of you. 

When scenes of pleasure cheer my heart. 
And tranquil thoughts afford delight ; — 

When beauteous prospects, decked with flowers, 
Can charm my mind, and please the sight, — 

Whene'er such lovely scenes I view, 

Yes, then, my friend, I '11 think of you. 

When In retirement memory steals, 

To happy days, forever past, — 
When every hour new joys increased, — 

Too sweet they were to longer last, — 
Yes, then, when friends their pledge renew, 
I love to think, my friend, of you. 

When pleasant scenes lend all their aid, 

To sweetly cheer the ills of life, — 
When loving hearts, like angels come, 

With welcome balm, to soothe the strife, — 
When friendship's bands are strong and true. 
Yes, then, my friend, I '11 think of you. 



164 ON THE DEATH OF M- 



TThen lonely hours, all filled witli gloom, 
Exert their po"^er to grieve the mind, - 

When, if one voice I then should hear, 
A source of peace I soon should find ; 

When kindred hearts are far and few, 

Yes, then, my friend, I '11 think of you. 



ON THE DEATH OF M- 



Sleep on, dear mother ! sweetly sleep, 

Thy son-ows all are o'er, 
For thou hast crossed the waters deep, 

And gained the heavenly shore. 
But we, thy children, weeping stay 

This side the billowy sea, 
And pensive count each weary day, 

In hope of meeting thee. 

While travelHng through this foreign land, 

"Where brightest hopes decay. 
We miss thy kind and willing hand. 

Which smoothed our roughest way, — 
"Which plucked the brightest, fairest flowers 

To cheer our wondering sight, 
"Which often toiled through lonely hours, 

To make our burdens light. 

We long to hear that voice once more 

Which pleaded for our good, 
And numbered purest blessings o'er. 

While by thy side we stood ; 
"When on the wings of faith each word 

Passed upward to the throne. 
Where softest whispers e'er are heard, 

Kot for ourselves alone. 



ON THE DEATH OF M J F . 165 

We long to see that gracious smile, 

Which chased our fears away, 
And made our spirits glad the while, 

Throughout the livelong day. 
Thy gentle tones with love replete, 

So charmed the listening ear, 
That we would oft thy name repeat, 

Because so sweet to hear. 

" Dear mother ! " still the accents float 

Like music on the air, 
While in our hearts its echoing note 

Vibrates distinctly there ; 
And safe enshrined this name shall be, 

To us the type of love, 
Till we once more thy face shall see, 

And speak to thee above. 

When burdened with the cares of life, 

Or crushed with bitter grief, — 
When weary in earth's busy strife, 

Our hearts find no relief, 
Then will we, in those lonely hours. 

When skies are overcast, 
Be young again among the flowers, 

While musing on the past. 

An ornament of grace she wore, 

A spirit meek and kind, 
Such honors as she daily bore 

On earth we seldom find ; 
Her timely words, — her fervent zeal, — 

Her bright example here. 
To us her special worth reveal. 

Still to affection dear. 



166 THE LITTLE FAYOKITE. 

Sweet is the memory of the blest 

Who pass from earth away, 
Like sunbeams in the fading west, 

To see a brighter day. 
Within the blessed realms of light 

Their bliss will be complete, 
And fadeless glories gi^eet their sight, 

With endless joys replete. 



THE LITTLE FAVORITE. 

My favorite was a charming pet. 

But just four summers old, 
Her merrv laugh is ringing yet, 

Her worth was never told. 
A lily rested on her brow, 

A rose upon each cheek. 
But though as pure as spotless snow, 

Death came the flower to seek. 

Her eyes were of a heavenly blue, 

So bright, so soft, so rare, 
That words within her heart so true 

Were read most quickly there. 
Rich clustering curls where golden light 

Had found a dwelling-place, 
Hung o'er her dimpled shoulders white, 

With most bewitching gi'ace. 

I saw her in a joyous mood 
Twine garlands in her hair. 

And give her bright canary food 
As he perched lightly there ; 



THE LITTLE FAVORITE. 167 

I saw her clap her little hands, 

And dance about with glee, 
Because I failed at her commands, 

Her hiding-place to see. 

The presence of this fairy bright 

Brought sunshine home to all, 
The echo of her footsteps light 

Was music in the hall. 
I left " my little rose-bud " fair, 

At play with other flowers. 
And hoped no cloud of sadness there 

Would shade life's purest hours. 

I saw the darling as she lay 

Upon her bed of pain, 
And wore the weary hours away. 

Inviting sleep again ; 
I saw the signet on her brow, 

Of one who knew his own. 
Her friends were weeping sadly now. 

Nor mourned they quite alone. 

'T was twilight hour, — the moon was still, 

And smooth her little bed, 
A cloud of gloom both dark and chill 

O'er all things seemed to spread. 
While gazing round, the truth I read 

In toys and vacant chair, — 
An angel from that home had fled, — 

No more she tarried there. 

Her little hands upon her breast 

In peaceful quiet lay. 
As if she thus had sunk to rest 

Upon a summer day. 



168 THE LITTLE EAYOEITE. 

The smile upon her face "was seen, 
Wliicli she was -svont to "n-ear, 

As if she thus in dreams serene 
Found pleasure eren^where. 

An angel bright had kindly come 

Adown the starry skies, 
To guide her to that glorious home, 

"Where beauty never dies. 
She kne^v the blest one -when he came, 

With shining garments white, 
For she before had seen the same, 

In yision of the night. 

She raised her hand, all thin and pale. 

And said, •■ Kind mother dear, 
My angel said he would not fail 

To brin2 bright flowers here : 
And when alone oft look on them. 

For I shall then be near. 
And as you hold each little stem. 

Your troubled thoughts will cheer." 

In lonely silence now each day 

She mourns her bitter lot. 
And thouo-h rare gifts still crowd her way, 

The lost is ne'er forgot. 
A darksome cloud obscures that sky 

TVhich once seemed bright and fair, 
And summer winds breathe forth a sigh. 

As it her grief to share. 

But in life's mingled cup is known 
A precious heavenly balm, 

Which when the heart is sad and lone, 
"With soothing power can charm ; 



A SILENT TOKEN. 169 

Blest sunshine then, through cheerless gloom, 

Reveals a brighter day, 
And faith beholds beyond the tomb * 

That home where angels stay. 



A SILENT TOKEN. 

This friendly sign 

I soon divine, 
Though not a smile be seen. 

Or kindly word 

In darkness heard 
At twilight hour serene. 

'T is sunshine bright. 

Of mellow light, 
Which shines amid the gloom. 

And warms the heart. 

With magic art. 
Nor fades in coldness soon. 

E'en as the dew, 

Of rainbow hue. 
Soft nestles in a flower, 

On two lips fair. 

It resteth there. 
As in a perfumed bower. 

'T is nectar sweet. 

With love replete. 
Which charms the passing hours, 

Where sweet thoughts stay 

Like bees in May, 
Around pure fragrant flowers. 



170 THOUGHTS ON THE DEPARTED. 

It seals tlie word 
Which love has heard, 

With sympathy sincere ; 
And sweetens care, 
Though pains be there, 

Or e'en a falling tear. 

Still let me know 

The bliss below 
Which loving souls can feel. 

And in sweet dreams 

Let sunny beams 
O'er my glad spirits steal. 



THOUGHTS ON THE DEPARTED 

I THINK of the dead who have now passed away 

From earth's happy scenes which they once made so gay, 
"Whose presence glad sunshine diffused all around, 
Like perfume from flowers where sorrow was found. 

I think of the dead whose hearts were so true. 
In silence I heard e'en their last sad adieu. 
On memory's tablet engraved there remain 
Most excellent things, which I love to retain. 

I will not forget thee, though others forget, 
Thy virtues like jewels conspicuous are set 
Round the heart's best affections forever to shine, 
More precious than rubies deep dug from the mine. 

I think of that smile which bade sorrow depart. 
Like a cool sombre cloudlet away from the heart, 
Which caused e'en the fair star of hope to shine bright, 
Long shrouded in gloom as with curtains of night. 



ON FRIENDSHIP. 171 

I think of the gifts wliicli thy hands used to bring, 
As if thou wert borne on a pure angel's wing, 
Rich manna from Heaven could alike glad bestow 
The sweet satisfaction I once used to know. 

I cherished each word as it fell from thj tongue 

As diamonds drop precious rubies among, 

So laden with goodness and truth was each tone 

That sweet music was heard, though but one spoke alone. 

I think of thy confidence, faith, and deep love, 
In those glorious things that are treasured above, 
How eager thou grasped round that bright golden chain, 
Which helped mortal man to reach heaven again. 

The thought of soon meeting those loved ones who sleep. 
Where angels attending their blest vigils keep. 
But serves to ope wider the bright pearly gate 
Where pure kindred spmts our coming await. 

I think of the dead, and I will not forget. 
For those things we once loved are realities yet, 
Till we join the blest throng in that heavenly home. 
Where, united forever, we no more shall roam. 



ON FRIENDSHIP. 

How sweet is friendship ! — like the balm, 

Distilled from choicest flowers. 
An influence like a heavenly charm 

To bless the fleeting hours ; 
Yes, hours passed in solitude, 

Where darkness reigns around, 
Where there is known but little good. 

But many ills are found. 



172 ox FKIEXDSHIP. 

Still let me often hear thy voice, 

"Whicli gently -whispers peace, 
And let my troubled heart rejoice, 

And strains of sadness cease ; 
Still speak to me of pleasant things — 

Of faith, and hope, and jor, 
Then shall I rise on lightsome ^ngrs, 

TVTiere pains no more annoy. 

This world 's a scene of woe and pain, 

And everywhere abound, 
And often o'er the flowery plain 

The brier too is found ; 
But friendship's hand can pluck each flower. 

And put the thorns aside. 
So we may feel its cheering power, 

When days of HI betide. 

It gladly fills the chalice free, 

TVhen waters cool would fail, 
And bids the saddest feelings flee, 

TThen foes without assail ; 
'T is welcome while in blooming health, 

'T is blest in sorrow's night, — 
Gives comfoit more than sordid wealth, 

Turns darkness into light 

Her soothing tones with peace begidle 

The weary houi's of pain. 
An d makes the lonely suflerer smile. 

And joy to come again. 
Like voices of the stilly night, 

Glad spirits come and go ; 
And tell of things in visions bright 

"Which dreams reveal below. 



ON miENDSHIP. 173 

Like blessings found upon the earth, 

Fresh from our Father's hand, 
Her gifts proclaim their heavenly birth, 

As pearls their native strand. 
True friendship is a precious link, 

Cut from the bond of love, 
And binds all friendly hearts, we think, 

To the pure chain above. 

Then let me feel its magic power, 

Whate'er my prospects be, 
Ejndly as dew-di^ops kiss the flower, 

Or moonbeams gild the sea ; 
Then shall I feel thy presence near, 

Though clouds obscure my skies. 
And no more lone, dark hours fear, 

Till heaven shall greet mine eyes. 

Then, silent in my darkened room, 

This thought shall give me peace, 
That friendship's hand would chase the gloom, 

And give me sweet release. 
But though I wait in prison long, 

Remembered but by few, 
Though I ne'er join earth's busy throng, 

I '11 gladly think of you. 

On memory's tablet e'er remain 

All kindly words I hear, 
And more to me than this world's gain 

Is sincere friendship's tear. 
Sweet sympathy is choicest balm 

From friendship's fountain given, — 
Pure incense which the spirits calm, — 

The precious boon of heaven. 
12 



174 THE saint's desiee, 



THE SAINT'S DESIRE. 

Thy Church have long waited, O Lord, thy approach, 
'Mid scorn and derision and constant reproach, 
Yet trusting thy promise, unfailing and sure. 
They eagerly wish their best hopes to secure. 

Like prophets, who spoke of thy coming of old, 
They earnestly long that the scenes they foretold 
May speedily usher the dawn of that day, 
For which they have suffered, for which we now pray. 

The earth's gloomy picture of sorrow and .night 
Can give us no pleasure, and cause no delight ; 
We look for that day with its glories replete. 
When saints their Eedeemer with transport shall meet. 

They wish to be freed from the evils of sin, 
From foes from without, fi'om temptations within. 
To seek a retreat where no bondage can chain 
The mind to distress or the body to pain. 

They long e'er to dwell where the olive of peace 
Shall flourish and blossom and yield its increase ; — 
Where righteousness shall like a stream overflow. 
An emblem to all of its fulness to show. 

Then Zion above, with its wonders sublime, 
Established with glory, enduring as time, 
A home for the ransomed will surely provide. 
Where sources of happiness ever abide. 

Those flowery plains with their beauties so rare. 
Diffusing their fragrance, enchanting the air. 
Still cheer the lone pilgrim amid all his care. 
Who often with weeping now longs to be there. 



LINES TO A FRIEND. 175 

The promise of life, where no sin can destroy 
His unfailing comfort or lessen his joy, 
Now strengthens his heart 'mid his sadness and tears, 
Confirming his hopes and dispelling his fears. 

With transport we hail all the " signs " which precede 
That day, when thy captives shall ever be freed 
From earth's dreary bondage, to reign with delight 
Where glory shall crown all that meets the glad sight. 

Still hoping, expecting, confiding in Thee, 

We wait thy blest coming in glory to see : 

O, rend the dark curtain that hides thee from sight, 

Appear in thy majesty, beauty, and might ! 



LINES, 

TO A FRIEND ON HER BIRTHDAY. 

I KNEW a maiden young and gay, 
Who used to wish her time away, — 
Who looked beyond those joyous hours. 
Which bloom like choicest, sweetest flowers. 
That scattered incense o'er life's way, 
Replete with blessings day by day. 
And led the bounding spirits on 
To grasp new joys ere old were gone ; 
Who looked beyond those sunny days, 
Where no dark cloud e'er hid the rays 
Of golden light, which, pure and rare. 
Then gilded all things bright and fair, — 
When angels borne on wings of love 
Brought peaceful tidings from above, 



176 LINES TO A FEIEXD. 

And whispered to the -vnlling ear 

Those pleasant tones it loved to hear. 

And charmed the soul with secret peace, 

^Tiose blessed memories never cease ; — 

TTho looked beyond the bud of hope, 

For brighter prospects to spring up, 

(^Vhich. if it fairer, quicker grew. 

"Would bear the stinging brier, too.) 

Whose leaves, if they should chance to bloom, 

]Might fall as teai-s around its tomb. 

All fading types to plainly show 

Our cherished hopes thus fade below ; — 

"UTio looked adown the stream of hfe, 

"When come the cares and toils and sti'ife, 

For rarer gems of love and ti'uth 

Than those she found in early youth. 

Alas ! how time fast speeds away, 
"With all its cares from day to day, — 
"With aU its joys and sorrows, too, 
Whose cup when ch'ained is filled anew 
"VMth mingled contents, white and red. 
Of joys that live, of hopes now dead : 
Like sunshine on the moiuitain-top 
"V^'e see it now. — behold 1 't is not : 
"While dreary shadows show that day 
' Has rolled its golden car awav : 

Though dews of gi-ief should freely fall. 
Not one bright beam could they recall. 
We gaze upon the flovring sti*eam, , 

A thing of hfe, — no idle dream, — 
Our boats are launched upon its wave, 
We cannot pause, till at the grave 
Our joys and hopes, our smiles and tears, 
Our sad regi-ets. our gloomy fears. 
Are buried in that boundless sea. 
That endless, vast eternity. 



"thy word, o god, is pure." 177 



"THY WORD, O GOD, IS PURE." 

Thy precious word, O Lord, is pure, 

Thy precepts just and right, 
' Thy promises forever sure 

Shine forth with holy light. 
Like diamonds scattered by our way, 

They lure our footsteps on, — 
We gain new treasures day by day, 

Till life's last goal is won. 

Gifts from thy precious, bounteous store 

Must need be wise and good, 
We taste and gladly ask for more. 

We feast on angels' food. 
Still let us from the fountain drink 

Of living waters pure, 
Then faith will never let us sink, 

But peace and strength secure. 

" A lamp " to guide our erring feet, 

" A light" to cheer our way, 
Such signals are most truly meet. 

To guard us lest we stray. 
Still let the truth more brightly shine 

Amid surrounding gloom, 
And when life's hopes and joys decline, 

Safe light us through the tomb. 



178 FAREWELL TO LATIN lA. 



FAREWELL TO LAYIXIA. 

Must I now part witli you once more, 

And linger on in pain ? 
Must thj kind, gentle tones no more 

Delight my ear again ? 
Must I in sadness ever pine 

For fi'iendship's loving hand 
To kindly smooth my thorny path, 

Within this desert land ? 

Must I in bondage still remain, 

My name almost unknown, 
And seldom know that sympathy 

Which cheei'S me like thine own ? 
And when the lonely hours pass 

So wearily away, 
Must I, as if for crime, be chained - 

In darkness, day by day ? 

When burdened with my burning pains. 

And sad, distressing fears, 
When in deep silence secret fall 

My unknown, bitter tears, 
How would one heartfelt word of cheer 

The bursting clouds dispel, 
And brins brisfht sunshine to mv mind, 

My troubled thoughts to quell. 

Dear friends make all my sunshine here. 

In sympathy and love. 
Transmitted through each kindly word, 

Reflected from above. 



FAREWELL TO LAVINIA. 179 

I welcome every gentle tone, 

Upon the summer breeze, 
And list If I perchance can hear 

Such messages as these. 

Within such darkness, still and drear, 

Who would not feel alone. 
When chosen friends, like angels blest, 

Beyond the gloom have gone ! 
I list in vain the hurried step 

Within the silent hall. 
Which came to bring me sweet relief, 

Obedient to my call. • 

In solitude I often muse 

On scenes forever past ; 
Too pure and sacred were those joys 

For me to longer last, — 
When music lent its cheering power 

To chase my griefs away, 
And generous deeds and joyous hours 

Provoked a long delay. 

Sweet memories linger round those spots 

I ne'er shall see again. 
Each picture, though most truly drawn, 

Could not reveal a stain. 
Contented, peaceful, happy, all 

A wreath of union twined. 
Whose living flowers so perfect were, 

Artists ne'er such designed. 

But ah ! the past, the bitter past, 

Time marks its changes well. 
Each stricken soul, in sorrow bowed. 

Its own sad fate can tell. 



180 A FRAGMENT. 

The loved have gone, the dearly loved, 

Because both good and true, 
And left us here, still o-azing on 

Heaven's gate they entered through. 

With patient grace and humble prayer, 

Still let us journey on. 
Marking the way their feet have trod 

Till the great prize is -won ; 
Then on that peaceful heavenly shore 

Where troubles ne'er annoy. 
May we meet aU. our friends again, 

With everlasting joy. 



A FEAGMENT. 

Into my soul let beams of light e'er come, 

On which descending let pure thoughts arrive, 

Like holy messengers with choicest gifts, 

To be my Avilling guests, forever dear. 

Then peace shall brood in quiet o'er my heart. 

Like as a snow-white dove above her nest 

Of little ones, all needing tender care ; 

And consolations sweet shall kindly cheer. 

Like choicest odors borne on evening breeze, 

Or spicy gifts from Oriental clime. 

Pure thoughts ! ye blossoms of a goodly tree 

Transplanted from fair Eden's rosy bowers. 

Smile on my pathway, through earth's changing scene 

And like blest angel voices cheer me on. 



TO ANNETTE ON HER BIRTHDAY. 181 



TO ANNETTE ON HER BIRTHDAY. 

Once more as the sun Tvitli his rose-tinted fingers, 
Opes wide his blue portals on time which still lingers, 
I think of thy birthday, a porter still keeping 
A watch for its dawning, for joy or for weeping. 

A few summers have bloomed on thy pilgrimage here. 
Like dew-drops, all glistening life's morning to cheer ; 
Youth's roses may fade, and its beauties decay, 
But a jewel enshrined in its casket may stay. 

Though shadows 'mid sunshine may sometimes steal on. 
Obscuring the peace which thy virtues have won, — 
Though sorrows may sometimes encompass thy way, 
Glad spirits will banish all dark clouds away. 

This life is a garden, where flowers oft bloom 
But to drop their bright petals like tears o'er our tomb. 
Sweet bonds may be severed, and friends may depart. 
But memory's signet will live in the heart. 

As the glistening stars, those bright gems of the night, 
Gain their beauty so rare from the great source of light. 
Even so may thy virtues conspicuously shine. 
Like gifts freely given by their Author divine. 

Raise thy standard on high with its emblem most bright, 

Be most valiant with those who have fought the " good 

fight," 
Then blest angels shall guide through earth's sorrows and 

strife, 
To the conqueror's crown, in the temple of life. 



182 THEN LET ME HEAR OF HEAVEN, 



THEN LET ME HEAR OF HEAVEN 

Whex clouds of sorrow like a veil 

Obscure life's sunniest skies, 
When boisterous ■winds my bark assail, 

When angry waves arise, — 
When tossed amid the dashing foam, 

My hopes are almost riven, 
When crested billows speed me home, 

Then let me hear of heaven. 

When sailing smoothly o'er the tide. 

With all things bright above, 
With chosen friends fast by my side, 

Whose hearts are warm with love, — 
When fortune smiles with bounteous hand. 

And gifts most sweet are given. 
When pleasures come at my command, 

Then let me hear of heaven. 

When comes the twilight of my days. 

Where light and darkness blend. 
Then may I catch those glorious rays 

Towards which my footsteps tend ; 
And when life's golden sands are few, — 

When close the gates of even, 
When to earth's scenes I bid adieu, 

Then let me hear of heaven. 

When free from every earthly ill, 

We gain the heavenly shore, 
Eternal peace our hearts shall fill. 

Increasing evermore. 



LINES ON MY NEW DRESSING-GOWN. 183 

Sweet rest within the pearly gales 

And joy supreme is given. 
Where for the weary soul awaits 

The crownino: bhss of heaven. 



LINES ON MY NEW DRESSING-GOWN. 

Most welcome, my wrapper ! of thee I have need, 
For friends in affliction are true friends indeed ; 
I reckon thee such, and shall speak in thy praise, 
No laurels beside will now crown thy young days, 
For when thou art faded, disfigured, and worn, 
Neglected, you then will be left all alone. 
No one to reoret thee, no one to lament 
Those numerous days all in usefulness spent, 
But I will now gladly thy best rights befriend, 
And from all rude assaults now thy honor defend, 
I win think of thee now in thy best days, and then 
Can speak as I wish of thy good deeds to men. 
When too modest and bashful in quiet you '11 wait. 
Imploring some friend aU. thy virtues to state. 

Thou hast come to me now, in thy fresh new array, 
Like a child clean attired for a glad holiday, 
To be my companion, 'mid sorrows and fears, 
Awake to my sadness, my trials and tears ; 
Ah ! little thou thinkest, the long weary days 
To be passed here in loneliness, deaf to all praise, — 
And the long, tedious nights to be spent all in gloom, 
With a prisoner in darkness, as still as the tomb ; 
Yes, little thou dreamest the strength of the chain 
Which now will prevent thy old freedom again. 



184 LINES ON MY NEW DRESSING-GOWN. 

Unbidden, you are joined to a friend, who must keep 
His vigils by day, while in quietness sleep 
The youthful, the aged, the gay, and the bright. 
When curtains are dropped by the angels at night. 

7^ Tj? TJC TP" v|? 

Thou art my attendant, I praise thee full well. 

But in dreary seclusion too long thou must dwell, 

I cherigh thy goodness by night and by day, 

And boldly will speak in thy favor alway ; 

I value thjjitness, " roan kerseymere," 

Above finer textures, more foreign and dear, — 

How nice thou art wadded, to shield me from cold. 

Wilt thou thus be cared for, when you become old ? 

Will some one then prize thee for what thou hast been, 

Though living in secret, apart from all men ? 

Or wilt thou be left, as a thing out of mind. 

And be suffered unseen thy true level to find ? 

I think of thy size, which in yards have been told, 
How ample and generous thy arms soon unfold 
To grasp me in friendship, so cosy and warm, 
That I cannot feel either cold or alarm ; 
Not forgetting thy color, a dark, modest gray. 
Just suited alike both to darkness and day , 
E'en the blushes now fade on thy sombre-like cheek 
When too much for thee in thy presence I speak, 
So that I have courage to tell all I know. 
Not shunning thy virtues most boldly to show. 

***** 
But I must not forget, while rhyming for thee. 
Her who introduced thee so kindly to me. 
Whose kind, generous hand has often been open 
In Christian aifection, with many a token 
To cheer a lone watcher, by life's ebbing tide, 
When help seemed departing on every side, 
Affording relief in the time of his need. 
Thus making his pathway much smoother indeed, 



LINES ON MY NEW DRESSING-GOWN. 185 

Bespeaking for him a kind, friendly word, 
Unnoticed by all, and but by One heard, 
Who sees the young sparrow, though light be his fall, 
And takes record of all things, the great and the small, 
Yes, long shall I think of thee, dear aunt of mine, 
Whose good deeds hereafter forever will shine, 
A reward for thy sympathy, kindness, and love, 
Conspicuous among the blest angels above. 

How many a glad day have we passed together 

In friendship's sweet bonds, which no stranger could sever. 

How happy the hours we once used to spend. 

Too swiftly they flew, for their joys soon would end. 

And when evening shades with their quiet drew near, 

How sweet were the sounds which then fell on the ear, 

With hearts tuned in concert, how pure was each tone 

While each made the pleasure peculiar his own ; 

Those were bright, happy days we shall ne'er see again, 

Till on the blest shore purer joys we shall gain. 

There, sorrows shall cease and privations be o'er, 

And pleasures be known never dreamed of before, 

No sickness, no troubles, no pain will arise 

To cast a dread shade o'er those calm, cloudless skies, 

No need of protection from heat or from cold, 

For youth never fades, nor does manhood grow old, — 

Ecstatic enjoyments, and that vdthout end, 

Will there be our portion, which God wiE. defend, — 

Made equal to angels, their joys wiU be ours. 

As gently distilling as fragrance from flowers. 

Pure garments of righteousness, spotless and clean, 
On glorified bodies will there e'er be seen, 
The gifts from the hands of the heavenly King, 
Who bids us triumphant his praises to sing. 
There Jesus will lead, like a shepherd, his fold 
By sweet flowing streamlets, through ages untold, 



186 SNOW-FLAKES. 

Revealing his glories to them witli delight, 

And blessing Tvith all that can gladden the sight, — 

Unlocking his treasures, imparting his stores. 

For " all things " are Chiist's, and that Saviour is yours. 



SNOW-FLAKES. 

Still falling, falling, falling fast, 
These messengers have come at last, 
All floating through the chilly air. 
On softest pinions, -white and fair, 
Each hke a dove vrith downy breast, 
High fluttering o'er its icy nest. 

So coming, coming, coming stiQ 
From heaven above, rich blessings fill 
Life's chalice with full many a joy. 
Which time's cold hand can ne'er destroy. 
So pure, so holy at their birth. 
They sweetly charm the iUs of earth. 

So, gathered round our toilsome way, 
May angel footsteps long delay. 
To cheer a weary, burdened heart, 
And bid the saddest clouds depart, — 
To cause the soul in hours of night 
Behold the gleams of heavenly light. 

Upon my heart, when lone and stiU, 
As freely may pure gifts distil. 
Awakening strains of perfect peace. 
Whose melody shall never cease, 
Till far beyond the reach of time. 
They swell heaven's harmony subHme. 



NO, NEVER GIVE UP. 187 



NO, NEVER GIVE UP. 

No, never give up, while the land is in view, 
Though stormy thy passage through hfe, 

Though meagre thy fortune, though comforts be few, 
Endure to the end of the strife. 

No, never give up, for the sake of repose, 

Though conflicts be sometimes severe, 
No rest to his spirit the warrior knows, 

TUl victory banishes fear. 

No, never give up, though ofl cheerless earth seem, 

Though storms of affliction may rise. 
For soon heaven's bright day with its glory shall gleam, 

Reveahng blest scenes to thine eyes. 

No, never give up to thy foe on the field, 

Though valiant and strong be his arm ; 
The enemy soon to the Christian must yield, 

Protected through grace from all harm. 

No, never give up, though the contest be long. 

Thy cause is the cause of the free ; 
Fight manfully, boldly, then sweeter thy song, 

Then brighter thy laurels will be. 

Thy Saviour shall aid thee in time of distress, 

And angels administer cheer, 
K courage should fail thee when troubles oppress, 

Then help shall be specially near. 

Then never give up, for the land is in view, 

Life's voyage will shortly be o'er, 
A haven of rest with the faithful and true 

Shall be joyfully thine evermore. 



188 THE TWIN SPIRITS. 



THE TWIN SPIRITS. 

When morn with rosy fingers first 

Her portals opened wide, 
Through which the messengers of Hght 

On golden pinions glide ; 
Within the shining band there came 

Two angel forms unseen, 
Commissioned o'er the earth to roam. 

Each like a fairy queen. 

On dewy pavements clean and pure, 

As on a jewelled sea. 
With noiseless steps, in sandals light, ■ « 

They danced in sportive glee. 
Erelong into the heart they flew, 

And claimed the dwelling fair. 
Before deceit its walls had stained. 

Or sin had trespassed there. 

With lips of purity and truth 

They speak of heavenly things, 
And precious treasures ever bear 

Upon their burdened wings. 
Around the brow of innocence 

A fragrant wreath they twine. 
Upon whose leaves the dews of peace 

Like brilliant jewels shine. 

They set their seal upon each heart, 

And lock blest secrets there. 
Where sweetest memories lay concealed, 

As in a casket fair. 



THE TWIN SPIKITS. 189 

With kindly words they charm the ear, 

Which breathe of peace and love, 
And scatter perfume in their way, 

Which tenderest thoughts can move. 

When deep affliction wounds the heart, 

Oppressed with pains and cares. 
Then peace extracts the stinging thorn, 

And choicest balm prepares. 
She fills the cup of life with joy. 

And dries the sorrowing tear. 
And like blest sunshine, warm and light, 

Dispels the clouds of fear. 

Peace gently folds her spotless wings 

Above the troubled breast. 
And whispers promises divine. 

Which soothe the soul to rest ; 
She strikes one note upon her lyre 

No other voice can sing, 
Which makes responses in the heart 

Of sweetest echoing. 

As sisters fair, joined hand in hand, 

They pause at Mercy's gate. 
And where Contentment spreads her board, 

They at her table wait. 
Sweet flowerets bloom along their way, 

With every charm replete, 
Which cause full many a heart to bow 

In homage at their feet. 

Upon her tranquil, queenly brow 

Peace plants an olive wreath, 
And in her sparkling eyes reveals 

A well of joy beneath. 
13 



190 AUTUMN WIXDS. 

Love with a winning, dimpled smile 
Twines garlands round her head, 

And weaves within the myrtle boughs 
The roses white and red. 

« 

Peace offers with a generous hand 

Her precious treasures fair. 
And counsels with a gracious voice 

Most welcome everj^where. 
With blushing face and quiet step 

Love plays a modest part ; 
And when a citadel is gained, 

She proves her magic art. 

Within my breast, as guardian friends, 

May they content abide. 
To cheer me with their words of bhss, 

From morn till eventide ; 
And when the lamp of life burns low, 

And dimly lights my way. 
To cheer me in my homeward path 

May these blest spirits stay. 



AUTUMN WINDS. 

AuTUMXAL winds with plaintive strains 

Disturb the trembling leaves, 
Which welcomed on the verdant plain 

Each jxentle summer breeze ; 
For blushes o'er them slowly steal. 

When their cold breath comes near. 
Which all their wounded pride reveeil. 

But still to us as dear. 



AUTUMN WINDS. 191 

As the low murmurs float along 

O'er meadow, field, and wood, 
Each bears the burden of a song, 

In quite a thoughtful mood. 
Each tender form then bows its head. 

And weeps bright tears of dew, 
Beneath those leafy boughs outspread 

Which once their glory knew. 

In each cool wind an under-tone 

Long vibrates on the ear, 
Which has a cadence all its own. 

Distinct and ever clear, 
Which speaks of joys forever fled, — 

Of scenes forever past ; 
Time's chariot on its course has sped, 

'Neath shadows overcast. 

We grieve to part with nature's pride, — 

Green leaves and fragrant flowers. 
Which like dear friends grew near our side. 

To cheer the summer hours ; — 
Those halcyon moments gladly spent 

In childhood's rosy morn, — 
Those golden links to memory lent, 

Till Hfe's last sands are gone. 

And yet how beautiful they seem 

To court the frosty air, 
As if they found, in pleasing dream. 

Some fairy dwelling there. 
Whose gentle whispers breathed at night, 

So charm with secret power, 
That gorgeous tints speak their delight, 

When dawns the morning hour. 



192 IMPROMPTU. 

Though hopes may fail hke withered leaves, 

And dirge-like music float 
Upon the wings of every breeze, 

With many a solemn note ; 
Yet, though the seasons pass away, 

And mark the year's decKne, 
It nearer brings the perfect day. 

Which makes heaven's glories thine. 



IMPROMPTU. 

Thy gentle voice falls on my ear 
In tones so soft, so sweet, so clear, 
Their memory now my spirit quells 
Like soothing peals from vesper bells. 
Then stay, sweet, kindly voices, stay ! 
From early morn till close of day, — 
Be my good angels, whispering peace, 
Nor ever let thy vigils cease ! 
Still let me in thy influence find 
A solace for the sorrowing mind, — 
A charm throughout my darksome day, 
To wear the weary hours away. 
Thy soothing voice still let me hear 
In mellow tones, distinct and clear, — 
Thy fairy footsteps in the hall, 
Precursor to thy speedy call, — 
Thy merry laugh, from day to day, 
Which drives all sadness far away, — 
Thy kindly greeting every morn. 
Which told for me new smiles were born. 



IMPROMPTU. 193 

Thy parting word at twilight hour, 
When pearly dews bedeck each flower, 
• So leave a blessing pure with me, 
Though neither form nor face I see. 
Still cheer my sadness with a smile, 
And let this thought my pains beguile. 
***** 
If incense blushing from a rose 
Can lull one to a calm repose. 
And lead one forth to fragrant bowers 
To cuU, in dreams, the fairest flowers ; 
How kindlier far the voice which leads 
The lone one through the daisy meads, — 
The hand which plucks the mignonette 
And clover sweet, with dews all wet, 
With mellow gifts from orchard's pride, 
Delicious with their juicy tide, — 
Which fills one's arms with sheaves of peace. 
All burdened with their rich increase ; 
How better far the heart which knows 
Compassion for the sufferer's woes, — 
And charms one's mind with varied store, 
So that one fain would ask for more ; 
Not such as earth-born delvers seek 
In jewels from their deep retreat, 
But words which sympathy bestows. 
Which from true friendship ever flows, 
And thoughts which cause the heart to burn 
With gratitude, — the soul's return. 

For friends give me of kindred mind. 
Who good in others' pleasures find, 
Who ne'er withhold the pitying tear, — 
If but such depths were needed here, — 
Brin2;inCT warm sunshine to the heart. 
From which all care must soon depart. 



194 TO ALICE. 



TO ALICE. 

Years come and go 
Too slow, -we know, 

For those wlio pine in sorrow ; 
The strength thej gain 
But gives fresh pain 

And trouble for the morrow. 

Bright blooming youth, 

Too true forsooth, 
Expects no bitter tears ; 

Perhaps 't is well, 

No foe should tell 
The griefs of future years. 

Like rosy morn. 

For you is born 
A year with prospects bright ; 

May trials drear 

Ne'er cause one tear. 
Nor bring a gloomy night. 

As pearly dews, 

"With rainbow hues, 
Descend -on flowerets fair; 

So kindly all 

May blessings fall 
On one not used to care. 

As waters sure. 
Serene and pure. 



TO ALICE. 195 

Alike bless great and small ; 

So may your hand, 

With friendship's wand, 
Impart good gifts to all. 

As diamonds bright, 

With liquid light, 
Keflect each beauteous ray ; 

So may your heart 

Its grace impart 
In virtues pure as they. 

Buoyant and free. 

With girlhood's glee, 
Enjoy the passing hours ; 

Too soon you '11 find 

Life's sober time, 
Not merely spent 'mid flowers. 

May sunshine glad. 

Which makes none sad, 
E'er come with gentle ray, 

And hearts that love, 

Like those above, 
Within thy dwelling stay. 

Improve each day, 

As best you may, 
But still the right pursuing. 

And gather strength. 

To meet at length, 
The ills to life accruing. 

With patient wings. 
Seek heavenly things, 



196 "l WISH I TTEKE A BIED.' 

Nor find your peace below ; 
A treasure where 
Oft tends your prayer, 

Your strength of love will show. 

May angel bands 
Hear thy commands, 

And willinsf jruests abide : 
And on thy way, 
Through life's short day, 

Encamp on every side. 

The heavenly star, 

Which shines afar. 
Shall o^uide vou safelv home ; 

Where pains and fears, 

And secret tears, 
Nor troubles e'er can come. 

There youth ne'er dies 

Nor pleasure flies, 
WTiere friends are parted never ; 

Immortal bloom 

Beyond the tomb 
Is constant, fadeless never. 



*'I WISH I WERE A BIRD." 

I WISH I were a little bird. 

All beautiful and bright, 
My liquid notes most sweet and pure 

Should wake the mornintr lia'ht ; 



"l "WISH I WERE A BIRD." 197 

When sunbeams cbase tlie shadows fast, 

From flowery vales away, 
My matins I would blithely sing 

To charm the early day. 

To lonely chambers dark and still, 

Where music ne'er is heard, 
My choicest strains I there would sing, 

My heart with pity stirred ; 
Upon each warm and sunny day, 

Close by the window-seat, 
Beneath the leafy bowers oft 

My lay would I repeat. 

To those who never joyous see 

The rosy morning light, 
My willing tribute should be given 

With most sincere delight ; 
When weary hours grow long with pain, 

The oftener I would sing, 
And try some cheering gift to bring 

Upon my burdened wing. 

To lonely hearts all desolate. 

Who find no happy hour, 
Nor even in earth's treasures fair 

Can see one beauteous flower. 
Would I my tenderest strains oft pour 

Close by their listening ear, 
Till to their quickened souls would seem 

An angel's anthem near. 

Then shadows now which needless fall 

Upon the lone and weak, 
Should yield to golden sunshine bright, 

Before one fleeting week ; 



198 THE MORNING COMETH. 

Desponding souls should quickly rise, 
Their hearts with pleasm-e stirred, 

Because they only heard the song 
Of one kind little bird ! 



THE MORNING COMETH. 

The morning cometh ! sweet the word 
Proclaimed on watchtower's height, 

The cheering accent now is heard, 
Soon ends this dreary night. 

For us the sound is kindly given 

To chase our fears away, 
And soon our eyes shaU view that heaven 

Where reigns eternal day. 

The morning cometh ! echo far 

The welcome tidings, free ! 
Though night may boast full many a star, 

The sun must rise for thee. 

The morning cometh ! joyful note, 

How blissful is the sound ; 
On fragrant breezes may it float 

This groaning earth around. 

Let every captive lend an ear, 

Who toils beneath his load ; 
Let every soul the message hear, 

And choose the heavenly road, 



THE MOENING COMETH. 199 

As oft our highest joys we gain 

Through grief and bitter tears, 
So dreary night on earth must reign 

Before the morn appears. 

But sin has reigned a tyrant long, 

And we have felt its power ; 
Its gloomy bands, though forged and strong, 

Must vanish in an hour. 

How great the change, when day shall gleam, 

Perpetual, glorious, bright ; 
An emblem fair each ray will seem 

Of beauty and delight. 

Thy warfare. Christian, soon will end, 

Thy race will soon be o'er ; 
God will thy constant peace defend. 

Where tears shall fall no more. 

The morning cometh ! saints rejoice ! 

The " dead in Christ " shall rise, 
And welcome with angelic voice 

Their Saviour in the skies. 

Redeemed from all that can destroy 

Their holy, heavenly peace. 
Pure praises shall their songs employ, — 

Their transport never cease. 

Haste, Lord ! that promised glorious morn, 

Attend thy children's cry ! 
And let refulgent glory dawn 

Across the eastern sky. 



200 THE SU5IMEE EAIX. 

ConjS.rm our hopes, entrance our ejes 
With but a glimpse of Thee ! 

Then -would our ransomed bodies rise 
When we thy face shall see. 

Enraptured Tvith thy presence, Lord I 

We at thy feet would fall, 
And feast delighted on each word, 

And claim Thee " all in all." 

But patiently we still would wait, 
Till thy own time shall come ; 

Then through thy mercy, free and great, 
The " victory " will be won. 



THE SUMMER RAIN. 



On trembling leaves and opening buds 

The boimteous rain descends. 
And with soft murmm-s through the woods 

Sweet pensive music blends. 

The meadows, lawns, and lovely vales 

In livelier robes are seen 
To smile content on all around, 

And boast their fairy sheen. 

Those flowers which languished on the plain, 
And hung their drooping heads, 

Now with a conscious vigor bloom 
With brighter leaves outspread. 



THE SUMMER EAIN. 201 

The little rill whicli slowly ran 

Adown tlie sloping hill 
Now quicker speeds its headlong course, 

Its mission to fulfil. 

The trees a cooling freshness give 

To the soft balmy air, 
While sunny skies through fleecy clouds 

Smile on the scene most fair. 

The bubbling brooks now quickly pour 

Their well-filled stores along 
To do their ofiice at'the mill. 

And swell the laborers' song. 

The violets on their tender stems 

Receive the precious boon, 
Which bounteous heaven thus kind bestows 

Lest they should fail too soon. 

Fresh roses ope their petals wide 

To drink the blessing in. 
While dew-drops linger on their stems, 

Pure as the balm within. 

Fair daisies on the mossy banks 

With purest light are crowned, 
While silver leaves and beaded twigs 

On every hand are found. 

So let created nature boast 

To show a fairer face, 
And open new her fruitful stores 

In every lovely face. 



202 CONSOLING PI103IISE. 



CONSOLING PROMISE. 

" And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes ; and there 
shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crjdng, neither shall there 
be any more pain : for the former things are passed away." — 
Eev. xxi. 4. 

Thrice happy that expected day, 

When sorrows shall be o'er, 
When earth-born trials flee away. 

And tears be shed no more. 

While here we dwell*, though blessings flow 

Profusely in our way, — 
And on our hearts their charms bestow. 

Throughout life's fleeting day, — 

Yet troubles like the thorn oft springs 

To mar our transient joy ; 
And unseen evils sadly bring. 

Which cause us more annoy. 

No constant, true, abiding peace 

Is promised long below, 
Nor will our souls find sweet release 

While sin remains om* foe. 

Nor is there one confiding soul, 

AVhate'er his joys may be. 
Who can his destiny control. 

And bid all sorrows flee. 

Through tribulation's thorny way 

The gate is often found. 
To those blest scenes where angels stay. 

And feast on holy ground. 



\ 



CONSOLING PROMISE. 203 

There Christians find, with humble hearts, 

Sweet converse with their Lord, 
And learn what naught but grace imparts, 

True knowledge of his word. 

Christ, the forerunner for our good, 

Victorious led the way 
Through gloomy sorrow's dismal flood, 

To realms of brighter day. 

He felt the world's opposing scorn. 

And knew the priests' disdain, 
With grief He wandered, oft forlorn. 

And suffered every pain. 

If then as " children" we obey 

His ever-gracious voice, 
He soon will wipe our tears away. 

And bid us e'er rejoice. 

We then shall share His constant love. 

Exempt from every pain. 
And all enrapturing pleasures prove, — 

A great eternal gain. 

A " recompense " we then shall find 

For every earthly ill, 
And know in truth that God designed 

His glory to fulfil. 

Faith, grace, and patience, Lord ! impart 

To each afflicted one, 
That he may wait with cheerful heart 

Till thou, his hope, shall come. 



204 PAETIXG TTITH CHEISTIA^' FKIEXDS. 



PARTING WITH CHRISTIAN FRIENDS. 

When witli dear friends vre have to part, 
What chilling sadness fills the heart, 
Too deep for tears or sighs to show, 
And only felt by those ■who know 
The bonds of love which God has given 
On earth, to be confirmed in heaven. 

If such afiection then may reign 
In those who humbly dare to claim 
An heirship to the heavenly throne, — 
A glorious kingdom for their own, 
How sad the last kind words appear. 
How doubly sad the silent tear. 

No parting word will need be given 
By those who share the bliss of heaven, 
Nor absence ever be deplored 
When Eden blest shall be restored. 
But in each other's presence blest 
Our happy souls wiU find sweet rest. 

O, let the glorious day draw nigh 
AYhen every fear and every sigh, — 
When every farewell tear shall cease, — 
Our hearts enjoy perpetual peace I 
Then on the promised heavenly shore 
OiQ' songs of praise shall fail no more. 

Soon may we on fair Salem's ground, 
With all the ransomed thi'ong be found, — ■ 
With them to view the better land. 
Richly adorned by God's own hand, 
With crystal streams and vaUeys bright. 
And all things which can give delight. 



CONFIDENCE IN GOD. 205 

Victorious over every foe, 
No more shall they sad bondage know, 
Their peace no cares shall e'er annoy. 
Their cheering hopes no power destroy ; 
Transcendent joys shall e'er await 
Each soul that enters Zion's gate. 

No unbelief shall there disturb 

The soul reposing in the Lord ; 

Each wondrous scene shall then conspire 

To keep alive the holy fire, 

Uniting hearts in perfect love. 

Enduring as the throne above. 



CONFIDENCE IN GOD. 

" Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their mas- 
ters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress ; so 
our eyes wait upon the Lord our God, until that he have mercy 
upon us." — Psalm cxxiii. 2. 

As servants watch their master's hand, 

To know his fondest will, 
So would we wait at thy command, 

Each mandate to fulfil. 

Not with a dread and slavish fear,. 

Would we thus seek thy face ; 
Our waiting souls would gladly hear 

Thy messages of grace. 

We ask for mercy, and our eyes 
Look for a sign from thee ; 
14 



206 CONFIDENCE IN GOD. 

The gift is free, thou bid'st us rise, 
And all our sorrows flee. 

E'er watchful for the Spirit's voice, 

We would each call obey, 
To do thy will would be our choice, 

Our chief delight each day. 

Thy promise makes our tasks most light, 

Thy counsels give us joy. 
And every day seems always bright, 

When spent in thy employ. 

Prostrate before our Master's feet, 

Submissive to his will. 
We gladly stay, and love to meet 

To keep his precepts still. 

He feeds our longing souls anew, 

He gives us angels' food ; 
The great supply he bids us view. 

And leave inferior good. 

We wait and feast, like friends we fare ; 

No strangers here abide. 
His humble followers subjects are. 

Who tarry at his side. 

As " sons" he greets them, kindred dear, 
No aliens here are known. 

As servants they no more appear. 
Their birthright now is shown. 

Approved as " children," we would share 
Our Father's smiles below. 

That soon with triumph we may wear 
That crown he will bestow. 



AFFLICTIONS. 207 



AFFLICTIONS. 

Afflictions sent by God's command 

Are messengers of love, 
They bid us view the chastening hand, 

And set our hearts above. 

They bid us leave our wandering ways, 

Our all in him confide, 
That we may all our future days 

In constant trust abide. 

'T is thus the Father shows his care 

For all his sons below, 
FoT no true blessings would he spare, 

To save from death and woe. 

He seeks our good, our greatest peace. 
And unknown bliss intends. 

He bids from sinful pleasures cease, 
And take the gifts he sends. 

Though present hopes and comforts flee 

Like early dew away. 
Far greater joys we soon shall see, 

When dawns the promised day. 

Eternal peace and joy shall crown 
Each humble, contrite heart ; 

God will with love each soul surround, 
And bid all grief depart. 



208 HYMN. 



HYMN. 

O, GLORIOUS dav of heavenlv rest, ~ 

"We hail each sign of thee, 
With eager hearts and longing eyes, 

TVe wait thy dawn to see. 
Those gilded rays of glorious light, 

Resplendent as the sun, 
Must soon to every eye make known 

The holy coming One. 

With cheerful hope and earnest prayers, 

StiU trusting in thy word, 
We long to see the eastern skies 

Reveal thy advent, Lord ! 
Then would our waiting souls rejoice, 

Could we thy face behold, •" 
In ages of triumphant bliss, 

Our joy could ne'er be told. 

O, blissful day of promise blest, 

We long to share thy peace, 
When pain and eveiy ill shall end. 

And pleasures never cease, — 
When rapturous joy, like holy fira 

Shall swell our song of praise, 
And ever}' wondering, grateful heart 

Extol thy work of grace. 

Redeemed beyond the reach of sin, 

Victorious o'er the grave, 
The ransomed shall with angel tongues 

Adore thy power to save. 



A SPKING MORNING. 209 

Thy wondrous love shall keep each heart 

In sweetest union bound, 
And naught shall ever cause a tear, 

For grief will ne'er be found. 

Their crowns of glory gemmed with light, 

The gifts from Christ's own hand. 
Shall every princely saint adorn. 

Within the promised land. 
To golden lyres each voice shall tune 

An anthem sweet and long, — 
" To Christ, who saved us by his blood 

All glory shall belong." 

O, glorious day, with haste draw near, 

For we would share thy rest ; 
We long, from every evil freed. 

To be supremely blest. 
O, shed thy beams of glory forth. 

Dispel this gloomy night. 
And let the earth, renewed, rejoice 

To see thy welcome light. 



A SPRING MORNINa. 

Hovp" cheering to the care-worn heart 
To view the gladsome spring ! 

When nature in sweet harmony 
Can her new anthems sing. 

The earth so long in ermine drest, 
Puts on her robes of green, 

That she may in her fresh attire 
Now grace a lovelier scene. 



210 A SPRING MORNING. 

Gay flowers bloom along the way 
In 'wliieli we thoughtful roam, 

And charm our eyes with visions bright, 
Foretelling scenes to come. 

The warbling birds on every tree 
Attune their little throats, 

And stir sweet chords in every heart 
Which lists their welcome notes. 

Refreshing odors fill the air 
From all the blooming trees, 

Which freely yield their perfumed gifts 
To the soft whispering breeze. 

Let man awake and view such scenes, 
Which free to all are given, 

Nor lose in drowsy hours such joys, — 
The kindly gifts of heaven. 

'T is for the happiness of all 
That birds with soarinij winj? 

Their anthems pour in accents pure, 
Their sweetest tributes bring. 

'T is for the eye of every one 
The fields and fragrant bowers 

Are in their richest garments drest. 
To charm such holy hours. 

Then let us all these gifts enjoy, 

With cheerful gratitude, 
And warmly praise their Maker, God, 

In accents oft renewed. 



LINES FOR A FRIEND's ALBUM. 211 



LINES FOR A FRIEND'S ALBUM, 

As on this spotless page I write 
Some hasty lines to greet thy sight, 
I would thy life might ever be 
From every stain and blemish free, — 
That vain deceit and selfish aim 
Might ne'er obscure thy honored name, — 
That generous deeds like valued store 
Mght e'er bespeak thy praise the more. 
I would each Christian grace might there 
Conspicuous shine, with rays most rare. 
Like brilliant gems, all sparkling, bright, 
Reflected from the source of light, 
Fair as each rainbow-tinted hue, 
Transmitted through the pearly dew. 

I would that wisdom there might dwell, 
As in a chosen fairy cell, 
From whence, as from a casket brioht, 
Pure thoughts like jewels may delight, 
And words more prized than rubies rare 
Ne'er fail in gentle tones to bear 
Sweet counsels to the erring, here. 
As balm to chase each bitter tear. 

Let all thy words be dipped in truth. 
To cheer the old, to charm the youth, 
Or like the fragrant blossoms spread 
Sweet influence round the sufferer's head ; 
To soothe the anguish of their mind. 
Who no relief nor joy can find ; 



212 TO A FRIEND. 

Or like blest angels let them brinor 
Glad news to make the cheerless sing 
Of peace and joy and rest to come. 
The " earnest " of their " better home." 
Then virtue, an unfaiHng wreath, 
With lasting honors shall bequeath, 
And friends be pleased to share the fame 
Recorded for thy own fair name. 
Then deeds of love and Mendship, too, 
Shall speak the praise that would be due 
To one whose life would always be 
A type of truth and purity, 
Whose light shall set nor fade away, 
Till bright shall dawn the heavenly day. 



TO A FRIEND. 

As twilight fades upon the west, 

And zephyrs yield their rich bequest 

Of odors to tlie evening air, 

From leaflets and from flowerets fair ; 

So may fresh incense for you rise, 

When time shall shade your future skies, 

To soothe with peace those future years 

When strength grows weak 'mid hopes and fears. 

As tendrils of the running vine 

Around the oak their grasp entwine, 

To find support to rise on high, 

As if to seek the fair blue sky ; 

So may your hopes like ivy cling 

To truth, a constant peace to bring, 

And bid your faith seek clearer skies 

Where joy fails not, — where sorrow dies. 



CHRISTIAN pilgrim's EXPECTATION. 213 

As gently as the evening breeze 

Soft whispers through the murmuring trees, — 

As calmly as the crystal tide 

Kisses the pebbles by its side, 

In all your ways appear to all. 

Nor shun the weak when once they fall. 

But flowers scatter in their way, 

And cheer their hearts, as best you may. 



CHRISTIAN PILGRIM'S EXPECTATION. 

While dark and ever-changing scenes 

Beset the weary pilgrim's way, 
How joyful does he hail the gleams 

Of heavenly light bespeaking day. 

When in deep trials oft he meets 
With sad affliction's withering hand, 

His burdened soul with rapture greets 
Each token of the promised land. 

By faith he views his sufferings o'er. 
And all his weary wanderings cease ; 

While prospects bright'ning more and more, 
Shall welcome him to endless peace. 

Fair Eden's bowers appear in bloom, 
Which blossom ne'er to fade away ; 

Whose tinted flowers of rich perfume 
Shall live throughout eternal day. 



214 ■ BE STEADFAST. 

No " pricking brier nor grieving tliorn " 
Shall more afflict fair Zion's sons ; 

The sacred, blest, sabbatic morn 

Shall bring release to ransomed ones. 

All tears will then be wiped away, 

Sickness and death be known no more, 

Angelic beauty ne'er decay, 

And gladness reign forevermore. 

Then shall the earth renewed rejoice 
That " former things " have passed away 

And PToanino; Nature's stifled voice 
Shall hail the long-expected day. 

In expectation still we wait 

For Zion's favored time to come ; 

When saints shall claim their priestly state, 
And Christ shall rei^n on David's throne. 



BE STEADFAST. 

Be steadfast, when faith soars majestic and free. 
And gains the blest world of delight, 

'\'\Tien carnal allurements and temptations flee, 
And earth fades aAvay from the sight. 

Then hope like an anchor holds steady and sure, 
Though tempests and storms may arise ; 

The passage is certain, the harbor secure, 
The prospect, — how blest to our eyes ! 



THE VOICE OF THE SHEPHERD. 215 

These holy enjoyments are treasures to all, 
When grace reigns supreme in the heart, 

Though dark clouds may gather, and dangers appall, 
True comfort -will not then depart. 

Be steadfast ' though darkness prevails o'er thy way, 

Though grieved in adversity's night. 
Behind the dark curtain which hides thee from day 

Are regions of heavenly light. 

Though doubts may oppress thee, and cause thee to fear, 

" Be steadfast," and "hope to the end," 
When deepest thy sorrows, then Jesus is near, 

With promise and grace to defend. 



THE VOICE OF THE SHEPHERD 

The voice of the Shepherd speaks kindly to me. 
Though in the thick darkness no bright form I see. 
His accents are laden with mercy and love, 
Melodiously sweet as the music above. 

When in the dark valley of sadness I roam. 
Afflicted, desponding, away from my home, 
I list 'mid the stillness those glad tones to hear. 
Which strengthens my heart, and dispels every fear. 

While here a lone traveller 'mid sorrows and fears, 
Whose burden is known by the measure of years, 
A message most welcome is whispered to me, 
" The King in his beauty " thine own eye shall see. 



, >» 



216 '•! T7ILL COME AGAIN. 

"What tBougli fairest flowers are now hid from mr view, 
And green meadows all sparkling witli pure crystal dew, 
Or beautiful landscapes afford no delight 
While their multiplied charms are all veiled from my sight ! 

"What though gorgeous sunsets fade slowlv away, 
Like the kind parting smile of a fair summer day, 
And the curtains of night overshadow the earth, 
Embroidered with gems, as when fii'st it had birth ! 

'T is not for my joy that the bright sunshine gleams, 
!N'or the moon's sUver lips kiss the valleys and streams, 
But in the deep sHence my faith can behold 
The home of the blest, where new beauties unfold. 

In that fair " better land," where the ransomed shall dwell. 
Shall new glories celestial all shadows dispel. 
And the voice of the Shepherd enrapture the soul, 
While ages on ages unceasingly roU. 



'•'I WILL COME AGAIN." 

(John xiv. 3.) 

The word is spoken unto hearts 
Deeply oppressed with bitter grief; 

Though consolation it imparts. 

Their burdened souls find no relief; 

They dare not think their Lord must go, 

And leave them orphanized below. 

They hear their Master's lovely voice. 
They see his smiles, they learn his ways,- 



"l WILL COME AGAIN." 217 

In all his promises rejoice, — 

To him repeat tlieir songs of praise ; 
Their happiness knows no alloy, 
While his great love their thoughts employ. 

If then their pious hearts declared 

Their zealous love for one so dear, 
Who always in their trials shared, 

And shed for them the pitying tear, 
No wonder that with sad dismay 
They welcomed not the parting day. 

Sweet consolation yet remains, 

A heavenly balm for all their tears, 
Jesus for them his love proclaims. 

And quickly quiets all their fears : 
" I go blest mansions to prepare, 
That«you may in my glory share. 

" I go that I may quickly send 

The promised blessing from above. 
To guide your ways till time shall end, 

In token of my constant love ; 
And soon I will return again. 
To introduce my glorious reign. 

" Predicted ' signs ' must first appear, 

Alike in sun, in moon, in stars ; 
Men's hearts will fail for gloomy fear. 

Beholding earthquakes, famines, wars ; 
O'er all the earth there then will be 
Distress, with sad perplexity. 

" When scorners walk in open day, 

And curse your humble, fervent prayer, — 

When scoffers in their boldness say, 
' Where is his faithful promise, where ? ' 



218 TO OCTAVIA. 

Then lift your heads with joy on high, 
For your redemption draweth nigh." 

Thus did the little flock expect 

Once more to see their blessed Lord ; 

Oft on this truth did they reflect, 
Confiding in his promised -word, 

Their eager hearts hoped every year 

To see the last great " sign " appear. 

And Israel's faith yet falters not, 

Though sceptics laugh on every side, 

They know their Lord has not forgot 
His word, which ever must abide ; 

Though heaven and earth should even fail, 

The truth is great, and must prevail. 

In thee, O Lord ! we will confide, 

Though tempting foes invade our peace, 

May living faith in us abide, 
A holy boldness to increase, 

So that oiu" hearts may still exclaim, 

" come, Lord Jesus ! " " come again." 



TO OCTAVIA. 

As fragrant flowers oft are twined 
In gi-aceful chaplets for the free, 

E'en so may virtue ever wreathe 
A fadeless crown more fit for thee. 

As lilies decked in snowy dress 
Unrivalled boast their pure attire. 



TO OCTAVIA. 219 



So in still purer loveliness 

May we thy graces more admire. 

On tliee may choicest blessings smile, 
And all thy paths be strewed with flowers. 

May friendship's voice each care beguile, 
Like balmy winds from orange bowers. 



On thy fair brow may peace enthrone 
Herself a conqueror o'er the heart. 

While generous feelings, all thine own, 
Shall to thy life fresh joys impart. 

And when earth's giddy scenes invite 
Thee, with a specious tempting voice. 

Then may it be your great delight 

To make the paths of truth your choice. 

For those but give us fleeting joys, 
Which often cause us bitter pain ; 

But these true peace, which never cloys, 
And leads to an eternal gain. 

May thy sweet voice like music, cheer 
Those who are held by sorrow's chain, 

Dispelling every gloomy fear, 

And soothing each unwelcome pain. 

Now, while the star of life is bright, 
And earthly hopes inspire thy breast, 

May heavenly scenes attract thy sight, 
And be thy lot the promised rest. 



220 THE soul's anchor. 



THE SOUL'S ANCHOR. 

Our life is like tte changing sea, 
Whose foaming billows rise and fall, 

Obedient to the great decree 

Which governs all things great and small. 

But though its surges high maj roll. 
And wildly toss our trembling bai'k, 

Yet hope, the anchor of the soul. 

Shall hold us safe, though night be dark. 

That power which rules the raging sea, 

And bids the waves in quiet sleep, 
Shall quickly make all shadows flee, 

While holy angels near us keep. 

His love shall cheer our roughest way, 
"When to our hearts no joy appears. 

Imparting comfort day by day, 

Which soon dispels foreboding fears. 

When trials like thick clouds arise 

In gloomy sorrow's dismal night. 
And darken e'en our happiest skies, 

W^hen life's bright stai* would shine most bright, 

Still trusting to our cable sure. 

We eager watch the dawn of day, 
When heavenly light with rays most pure 

Shall chase all shadows far awav. 



THE soul's anchor. 221 

In sailing o'er life's trackless main, 

Where golden sunbeams peaceful play, 

As if with gems at home again, 

Which sparkle through the livelong day. 

How oft our prospects, seeming fair. 

Are blighted like a rose at noon, 
Whose dying fragrance charms the air. 

Whose blushing petals wither soon. 

E'en so our fondest hopes decay, 

When to our hearts they seem secure. 

And cherished friends fast pass away. 
Their virtues left as incense pure. 

But faith still looks beyond the gloom. 

To blest Elysian scenes outspread. 
Where beauty yet again shall bloom. 

When quickened from the slumbering dead. 

When unbelief would like a cloud 

Obscure each heavenly, blissful ray. 
Which would like blessed spirits crowd 

Around our pathway day by day, 

Then Hope lifts up the darkening veil 

That hides the welcome light above. 
Whose holy influence ne'er shall faU, 

Because that light is crowned with love. 



15 



222 THE LAND OF THE BLEST. 



THE LAND OF THE BLEST. 

How often I think of the land of the blest 

Where the pilgrim, so faint and so weary, shall rest 

From his labor, his troubles, his fears, and his care, 

Forever content with the peace which flows there, 

Like a river abounding, unfailing, and sure. 

As the words which have promised shall ever endure. 

His journey so rough through this wilderness state 

He now longs to end at the bright pearly gate. 

Where his burden so gi'ievous shall quickly be lost, 

Which often much sorrow and anguish has cost ; 

Where blest angels attend on their errands of love, 

E'er rejoicing to guide through the mansions above, 

Oft folding their wings in their gladness to stay. 

To rehearse some new theme causing transport each day, — 

Where sweet music celestial so charms the glad ear. 

As mortals ne'er dreamed in bright visions to hear, 

Where the river of life with its pure crystal stream 

Merry dances along with its blessings between. 

Those prophetical trees with their foliage so green. 

And their twelve kinds of fruit which there monthly are seen, 

E'er distilling rich odors from blossom and leaf. 

And a pure healthful balm for the nations' relief; 

Where pleasures unnumbered, and beauties untold, 

'Mid walls richly jewelled, and pavements of gold 

Shall constantly burst on his wondering eyes, 

With the unrivalled bliss of that blest paradise. 

Not a tear will be there, for their fount will be dry, 
And no sorrow to cause e'en one murmuring sigh, 



THE LAND OF THE BLEST. 223 

No long sickness to waste, and no pain to distress, 
No misfortunes to mourn, and no foes to oppress, 
No errors to grieve, nor temptations annoy, 
No sad, silent grief to diminish our joy. 
Not a long, painful day, nor a wearisome night, 
No weakness of vision, nor losing of sight, 
No privations, nor losses, nor evils to bear, 
Nor forebodings of ill, the first-fruits of despair, 
All, all will be tranquil and joyous and bright, 
In the beautified earth, filled with glory and light. 

There no grief shall e'er banish our pleasures away, 
No perplexing anxieties prolong their delay. 
No absence from friends, for all partings are o'er. 
No unguarded sentence in vain to deplore. 
No sin to molest our calm peace and content. 
Where no chastening rod of affliction is sent ; 
There envy and hatred no more can annoy, 
Nor the enemy, death, our fond hopes e'er destroy ; 
Then most truly that land Is a land of sweet rest. 
Where the weary shall find a bright home with the blest, 
And I, as a pilgrim, now burdened, would long. 
With the ransomed to raise loud the conqueror's song. 
Who shall triumph forever o'er death and the grave, 
And bright crowns of rejoicing eternally have, 
With blest angels to share in the conquest above. 
And with Jesus himself In the Eden of love. 



224 TIOLETS. 



VIOLETS. 

Earth so long, long dressed in ermine, 

Prized as "with a royal care, 
KoTv lias changed her wintiy mantle, 

For her emerald robes most fair ; 
Lakes have oped their crystal eyelids. 

Peeping out to view the scene, 
While impatient in their bondage, 

Beauteous things have lain unseen. 

Well I love the blooming spring-time. 

Coming with his sweet bequest, — 
Fragrant leaves and blushing blossoms. 

To be welcomed as a guest ; 
Beauty then unbidden lingers 

Round each petal, leaf, and stem. 
Prized by those who see their glory, 

As a bride a brilliant gem. 

Then I love to wander freely. 

When the new-born light appears, 
Through the meads and flowery valleys 

As in boyhood's early years, 
Drinking in the balmy fragrance. 

Wafted by the gentle breeze, 
As an offering pure and welcome. 

From the ever-whispering trees. 

Wild-flowers then with joy I gather, 
With the ciystal dew-drops wet. 

Showing preference, and most gladly. 
To the modest violet ; 



VIOLETS. 225 



Unpretending, unassuming, 
These, my 1 ttle pets, are seen, 

Quite unconscious of the glory 
Which adorns the hillocks green. 

Often crushed beneath my footsteps, 

When on schoolboy's rambling tour, 
Even then my heart yearned kindly 

All their beauty to restore ; 
Now I prize them more than ever, 

On each welcome sunny morn, 
On their mossy turrets posted, 

Sentinels to hail the dawn. 

So true goodness must we cherish, 

AVhen unconscious of its power 
We behold a charming fragrance 

Sweet distilling hour by hour. 
Blessing all with generous bounty, 

Soon reflected from above, 
Leading us with gi^ateful praises 

To the source of purest Love. 



226 THE ADVENT BELL. 



THE ADVENT BELL. 

The Advent bell, the Advent bell, 
How sweetly all its pealings tell 
The glorious morn is drawing near, 
When Zion's King will soon appear, 
Exalted by his Father's hand, 
To take the great supreme command. 

Though on this earth he once has died, 
He has the hosts of sin defied. 
And rose triumphant o'er the grave, 
Each willing, humble soul to save ; 
And yet again will soon appear, 
When dawns the blest prophetic year. 

As " King of kings, and Lord of lords," 
Will he make known his sovereign words ; 
Each promise to his saints fulfil, 
AVho have performed his righteous will ; 
And to their joyful, wondering eyes 
Will ope the gates of Paradise. 

How welcome do the tidings come 
To weary pilgrims travelling home. 
That all the " signs " with truth portend 
Their tribulations soon will end ; 
Their sorrows change to rapturous joy, — 
Eternal praise each tongue employ. 

The Advent bell, the Advent bell ; 
Still shall its heavenly music swell, 



THE ADVENT BELL. 227 

The earnest prayer of saints below, 
Who would to their blest mansions go, 
Till every weeping, longing eye 
Shall view their Savioui' in the sky. 

Resplendent glory then will shine 
Around the Heir of David's line ; 
And every tongue, and every knee, 
Shall all fulfil the great decree ; 
The pomp of earth shall fade away. 
Like morning dew, in that great day. 

Then will the Conqueror on His throne, 
His patient, waiting people own, 
And royal robes of state prepare. 
For all who shall his glory share ; 
Himself shaU serve each happy guest, 
Eeclinins near His loving breast. 

The heavenly choirs anew will sing 
Loud anthems to their new-made King, 
While loud through all the ransomed throng 
Shall sound the coronation song : — 
" Let Christ the glorious Saviour reign. 
Let heaven repeat his praise again." 

The Advent bell, the Advent beU ; 
O, let its echoes quickly teU 
This burdened, groaning earth around, 
The welcome news, — the joyful sound. 
That " Christ the second time has come, 
To take his weary exiles home." 



228 TO LOR ALE A. 



TO LORALEA. 

IMay angels of mercy attend on tliv wav, 
E'er to guide thee aright, lest oft erring you stray, 
And to cause from thy heart every sorrow to flee, 
Heavenly blessings deHghting to bring unto thee, 
On thy pilgrimage homeward to Zion most fair, 
As a stranger and pilgrim who longs to be there. 

Around thy fair brow may contentment and peace 

Pure offerings wreathe, all most pure with increase. 

To give to thy innocent life every joy, 

O'erflowing thy chalice, unmixed with alloy, 

In thy mission below, amid pleasures or pain 

Ke'er turn from the right, though gi-eat wealth be thy gain. 

Encouraged to duty by love's gentle voic ^, 

Thus making the paths of blest wisdom your choice. 

Transferring thy heart's best affections on high, 

E'er seeking thy home where thy treasures shall He. 

Then knowledge, and virtue, and goodness, and truth. 

Encircled with promise shall gladden thy youth. 

New springs of enjoyment reveahng each day 

New sources of pleasure enlivening thy way, 

So, joyous and peaceful, sweet rest shall be given, 

And a crown gemmed with light in the mansions of heaven. 



STILL HOPE FOR THE BEST. 229 



STILL HOPE FOR THE BEST. 

The morn of thy life may prove sunny and clear, 
And prospects grow brighter with each rolling year, 
Sweet flowers may smile all thy pathway along, 
And hearts tuned in concert respond to thy song ; 
Rejoice in thy pleasures with innocence blest, 
Remember thy mercies ! — still hope for the best. 

The day still advancing, each hour may prove 
Thy noon the enjoyment of faith and of love, 
And Hope with its brilliant and beautiful rays 
May lighten thy path, and give peace to thy days ; 
In all things give thanks, with contentment e'er blest. 
Forget not thy weakness ! — still hope for the best. 

The shadow declining, dark clouds may arise, 
And tears of deep anguish may flow from thine eyes, 
The bramble may flourish where roses once grew, 
And enemies boast where kind friends were once true ; 
Though thy heart may despond, by sad trials opprest, 
Faint not, nor be weary ! — still hope for the best. 

Though earth may look dreary, and darkness surround 

Those scenes where we hoped joy and peace would be found 

And kindness and sympathy fail to bestow 

That comfort the sufferer most wishes below ; 

Though thy days pass in gloom, by drear bondage distrest, 

Yet trust to the future ! — still hope for the best. 

Thy pilgrimage. Christian ! will soon have an end, 
Angel-guards even now on thy footsteps attend, 



230 I AM WEARY OF STATING. 

To guide thee tlirougli dangers unseen on thy way, — 
To comfort, to strengthen, to cheer thee each day ; 
Endure then thy conflicts ! — for soon thou shalt rest, 
The conquest is certain, — still hope for the best. 

The tried sons of Zion will shortly come forth, 
From east and from west, from south and from north, 
To claim in those mansions of glory above 
That abode where shall reign the perfection of love ; 
The warfare accomplished, the saints then shall rest, 
Forever triumphant, — then hope for the best. 



I AM WEARY OF STAYING. 

I AM weary of staying, O soon let me rest 
In that beautiful land which is made for the blest. 
Let me dwell in those mansions of glory and light, 
Where pleasures untold shall my sorrows requite. 

I am weary of staying, O let my pains cease, 

Let my spirit from bondage obtain its release. 

Let me revel forever in blessed repose, 

With that ecstatic bliss which the pure seraph knows. 

I am weary of earth, and I wish to go home. 

For where lies my treasure no evils can come ; 

Though bright scenes are here found, which invite my delay, 

A future more glorious forbids me to stay. 

I am weary of staying alone in thick gloom. 
Like a prisoner in darkness, as still as the tomb, 
Bereft of warm sunshine, which gladdens the day, — 
Of the moon's silver beams which chase shadows away. 



I AM WEARY OF STAYING. 231 

I am weary of sadness, I wisli to be free 

To enjoy those delights which perpetual will be, — 

The bliss of the sanctified, most truly blest, 

Where the weak shall be strong, and the weary shall rest. 

I am weary of sighing, O let my tears cease, 
Let their fountain be dry ; let me find my release ; 
Over grief and temptations and trials and sin, 
A triumph for aye let me gloriously win. 

Deprived of thof e innocent pleasures which all 
Delight from fond memory's page to recall ; 
I long to drink deeply from life-giving peace, — 
From heaven's pure fountain which never shall cease. 

My mind, long oppressed with my sorrows and pain, 
Oft strives, but in vain, its old freedom to gain, 
And my body, as if it were doing my will. 
As steadfastly shuns my glad wish to fulfil. 

But when to earth's scenes I shall once bid adieu, 
And all evils terrestrial shall fade from my view, 
"With a glorified body and mind to compare, 
I shall triumph o'er sickness and troubles and care. 

Yes, made like the angels, for such is the word. 
To die nevermore, but free as a bird 
Escaped from its prison, a captive while here, 
I shall roam with deliorht, with no bondaare to fear. 

Where sweet flowing streamlets through pastures most gi'een. 
Dance gayly along pleasant valleys between, 
I shall joy with my Shepherd forever to roam 
Through the enchanted scenes of that beautiful home. 



232 I AM WEARY OF STATING. 

I shall gaze on the beauties of earth then made new, 
With that transport and peace which the world never knew, 
I shall cull the sweet flowers, and in them then see 
Delectable things never dreamed of by me. 

Fair landscapes all changing with rich, varied hue, 
A charm most delightful shall add to our view. 
Mild zephyrs all laden with odors most sweet 
From new blushing blossoms our senses shall greet. 

In palaces gorgeous I long soon to dwell, 
Whose pure jasper walls are all garnished so well. 
Whose splendors unrivalled so meet the glad eye, 
That we never could wish from such glory to fly. 

Health, beauty, and holiness reign all around. 
While all that can please in profusion is found ; 
No thorn to afflict, and not one bitter tear 
E'er in secret can fall to mar ^ leasure so dear. 

I am weary of staying, soon let me depart. 

For visions celestial have ravished my heart, 

I long to put off, as a garment, all sin. 

And to glories transcendent, through Christ, enter in. 



I Loi;ra t6 go home. 233 



I LONG TO GO HOME. 

I LONG to go home, for too long I delay 
In a strange foreign land, where by night and by day 
Temptations most grievous my progress withstand, 
As onward I haste to the beautiful land. 

I long to go home, for I gladly would rest 

From evils by which I have long been distrest ; 

As a stranger and pilgrim I look with delight 

For the end of my journey with prospects most bright. 

I long to go home, for I would not delay 
To add to my march but the length of a day ; 
The glimpse I have had of that glorious land 
Makes me eager amid all its beauties to stand. 

The night is far spent with its sorrows and fears, 
Where strength has been gained amid trials and tears ; 
The day is just breaking, the sun I behold 
Through fair shining portals its glories unfold. 

The cloudlets of grief here no longer now stay. 
As his bright, shining arrows chase darkness away ; 
My mind's sky is clear like a rose-tinted morn, 
When flowers look upward, when beauty is born. 

I long to go home, to my dear Father's home, 
Where his children all gathered with transport shall come ! 
With hearts firm, united with love's blissful chain. 
Whose links death can never dissever again. 



234 I LONG TO GO HOME. 

I rise on the pinions of faith like a dove, 
Bound homeward to carry its message of love ; 
I gaze on the prize as it glistens afar, 
Encircled with light as a true guiding star. 

I eagerly long that blest country to see, 
Where glorified spirits are waiting for me, 
And meet with those loved ones, who, little before, 
Passed gently away to the heavenly shore. 

Already there falls on my glad, listening ear 
Pure anthems celestial, most welcome to hear ; 
And I long to be swelling; the chorus sublime 
Which shall echo, as now, through the portals of time. 

My journey is ending, and almost at home 

I hear angel voices, like blest spirits, come 

To beckon me on to that heavenly rest. 

Where all trouble shall end and the weary are blest. 



LET ME REST. 235 



LET ME EEST. 

Let me rest soon in peace. I am weary of earth, 
Where tears have their fountain, and sorrows have birth; 
Let me cease from my labors, and find that repose 
Which in heaven the glorified soul ever knows. 

Let me rest from all trouble ; for pain is my lot, 
Since darkness has clouded life's sunniest spot. 
In vain do bright flowers blush kindly for me, 
For their beautiful petals I never may see. 

Let me rest from all trial, all sadness and sin. 
To eternal felicity soon enter in, 
To enjoy then forever with purest delight 
Those wonders which ever shall gladden my sight. 

Let the friends, as they come to my cold, silent bier. 
Leave a flower, but bring not a sigh nor a tear ; 
Let them keep in fond memory my poor, humble name, 
Not lost to afiection, though dead to earth's fame. 

I wish to be laid in my last, silent sleep, 
Where in quiet repose dewy violets weep 
Their diamond tears on each fair summer's morn, 
As a tribute most pure my lone grave to adorn. 

Let birdlings come near to my emerald bed, 

And joyously sport over the slumbering dead. 

Let them break the long silence with clear, liquid song, 

As echoes borne earthward from Heaven's ojlad throng. 



236 LET ME REST. 

Let sunshine play o'er me tkroiigli tall waving trees ; 
Let anthems be sung by the murmuring breeze ; 
Let nature around me look happy and gay, 
To drive every vestige of gloom far away. 

I would leave such a blessing of sanctified -peace 
As would savor of heaven and bid sorrow cease ; 
I would smooth the rough pathway of those left below, 
And life's sweetest gifts on them ever bestow. 



THE END. 






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